Australia hold the edge in the deciding third Test against South Africa after the hosts reached stumps on day three at 140 for 4, leading by just 40 runs at Newlands in Cape Town.
The day's final passage of play proved decisive when Temba Bavuma, South Africa's captain, was bowled by a Nathan Lyon delivery with eight balls remaining. His dismissal left the hosts with a slender advantage to defend on day four.
Morning Conditions and Pitch Report
The forecast for day four is clear and sunny throughout the relevant playing hours, with some clouds expected later in the evening. Play is scheduled to begin at 10.30am local time, which is 7.30pm AEDT and 8.30am GMT.
The pitch is wearing and offering more turn to the spinners, while still providing some lift for the quick bowlers. Batters can still play shots on it with true bounce, suggesting a surface that may reward judicious aggression.
Series Decider in the Balance
South Africa have Breetzke, Rickleton, Mulder, Jansen, and Harmer still to come, all of whom can meet the challenge of adding valuable runs. A further hundred runs would make the game competitive, while two hundred would put Australia under significant pressure.
The entire series remains genuinely in the balance as play gets underway, with wickets for Australia allowing them to press home their advantage and set up a manageable chase.
