Australia beat South Africa after they chased down a target of 34 runs Sunday to claim a six-wicket win inside two days on a hostile Gabba pitch.
Australia finished their first innings 66 runs ahead midway through the first session on Sunday, and they promptly dismissed the visitors for 99 despite a valiant 36 not out from Khaya Zondo.
But the chase collapsed for Australia when Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Steve Smith, and Travis Head all fell to catches behind the wicket as pacer Kagiso Rabada ran amok.
Despite losing 19 wickets on the day, Australia won by one run thanks to the efforts of Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green, who were assisted by 15 extras.
“Tricky wicket. I thought the way Head and Smith batted (in the first innings) got us to this winning position,” said Australia captain Pat Cummins.
Man of the match Head added: “Very difficult wicket, plenty for the bowlers. We saw that the whole game. Nice to be able to contribute and get a win.”
While Australia won, the team’s coaches and players will be worried about Warner’s form after yet another poor showing.
With calls for his dismissal growing louder, Warner will play his 100th Test in Melbourne on Boxing Day without having scored a century in almost three years.
While both teams’ bowling attacks were formidable, Australia’s batting consistently stood out as the series progressed.
The weaknesses of South Africa’s top order were exposed horribly on the green Gabba wicket.
“Another 60 runs and we would have been in the game. Pretty spicy wicket, bowlers were licking their lips,” said South Africa skipper Dean Elgar.
“I don’t think we could prepare any better. Conditions weren’t in favour for the batters.”
After falling behind by a combined score of 27-4 in the first and second innings, South Africa was never able to come back.
And while the Aussies had their own difficulties, it was Head’s brilliant 92 off 96 balls that ultimately separated the two teams.
From a batting position of 145-7 at the start of play, Australia ended the day with a lead of 66 runs thanks to South Africa’s efforts.
After falling to 3-2 at lunch, the South African batsmen never looked like they had what it took to give Australia a respectable total.
Photo by EPA/DARREN ENGLAND
