Australia were left red-faced with both bat and ball at Perth on Sunday as South Africa continued their rich form on the fourth day of the first Test at Perth. South Africa began the day with a lead of 388 runs and increased it to 538, owing to handy knocks from Quinton de Kock (64), Vernon Philander (73) and Keshav Maharaj (41 not out). They eventually declared on 540 leaving Australia with a target of 539 for an improbable win. Australia ended the day at 169/4, still 370 runs shy of their massive target.
Australia began their second innings with David Warner hitting a quick-fire 35 off 33 balls. He seemed to be in a hurry but was run out in a brilliant fashion by Temba Bavuma.
After that, Kagiso Rabada bowled one of the most scintillating spells of the match, bagging three wickets for 49 runs in 16 overs. He got the wickets of Shaun Marsh, Steve Smith and Adam Voges. Usman Khawaja remained unbeaten on 58 along with Mitchell Marsh on 15 at the end of day’s play. With a day’s play left, South Africa will fancy their chances for a win on Monday.
Brief scores:
South Africa 242 & 540/8 declared lead Australia 244 & 169/4 (Usman Khawaja 58 not out; Kagiso Rabada 3/49) by 370 runs
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