South Africa staged a strong fightback against Australia on Day 3 of the Cape Town Test after the visitors secured a 100-run first-innings lead. Despite Australia putting themselves in a commanding position with the bat, the hosts responded with some early resistance and finished the day at 140/4 in their second innings, taking a 40-run lead. With six wickets still in hand, South Africa will aim to build a bigger advantage on Day 4, while Australia will look to wrap up the remaining wickets and strengthen their chances of securing a series victory.
Australia resumed the third day's play at 330/4 and went on to post 429, thanks to impressive contributions from Josh Inglis (102), Alex Carey (80) and Cameron Green (65). Inglis registered his second Test century before Simon Harmer dismissed him. Harmer finished with four wickets, while Marco Jansen claimed three. With a 100-run lead, Australia looked to put South Africa under pressure. Mitchell Starc provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Aiden Markram, while Josh Hazlewood removed David Bedingham. Starc struck again to dismiss Marques Ackerman for 62, reducing the hosts to 31/3.
However, Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke offered resistance with a valuable partnership. Nathan Lyon eventually dismissed Bavuma late in the day, leaving South Africa at 140/4 at stumps.
South Africa now lead by 40 runs with six wickets remaining. The hosts will look to extend their advantage on Day 4, while Australia will aim for early breakthroughs to regain control of the match.
Brief Scores
South Africa: 329 & 140/4 (Marques Ackerman 62; Mitchell Starc 2/29)
Australia: 429 (Josh Inglis 102, Alex Carey 80, Cameron Green 65; Simon Harmer 4/104, Marco Jansen 3/60)
South Africa lead by 40 runs.