Cape Town:Fast bowler Mitchell Starc played a pivotal role for Australia as they pursued a series-deciding victory on the third day of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Starc took two crucial wickets in South Africa's second innings, dismissing Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman, putting the host team under pressure before they could erase their first innings deficit. By the close of play, South Africa stood at 140 for four, leading by 40 runs with six wickets remaining.
In the first innings, Starc had impressive figures, taking six for 72, and continued his form by striking early in the second innings. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon added to South Africa's woes by dismissing captain Temba Bavuma for 35 in the penultimate over, leaving the world Test champions in a challenging position.
Earlier in the day, Australia's Josh Inglis completed his second Test century before the team was bowled out for 429, after starting the day at 330 for four. Inglis, who scored 102, matched his debut score against Sri Lanka from two seasons ago. He formed a vital partnership of 185 runs for the fifth wicket with Alex Carey, who contributed 80 runs.
South Africa, beginning their second innings 100 runs behind, struggled initially as Markram was dismissed for one by Starc. David Bedingham was caught for 11 off Josh Hazlewood, while Ackerman, after a promising start, was removed by a Starc bouncer for 62, as he was caught at gully off bat and helmet. Australia's earlier innings saw them lose their remaining six wickets for 99 runs, with Inglis and Carey adding 40 runs to the overnight total before being dismissed by off-spinner Simon Harmer.