Australia Closes on Victory Against South Africa in Second Test

South Africa remains 353 runs short of its victory target after slumping to 77-4 in its second innings at close of play on yesterday’s fourth day of the second Test against Australia in Adelaide.

Australia earlier declared on 267-8 in its second innings, setting South Africa a record 430 to win, with Michael Hussey scoring 54.

Australia can overtake the Proteas atop the International Cricket Council’s Test rankings by claiming the three-Test series. The opening match in Brisbane was a draw.

South Africa’s innings got off to a difficult start as captain Graeme Smith edged a ball from Ben Hilfenhaus to Ricky Ponting at second slip without scoring.

Nathan Lyon then claimed the first of his two wickets when Hashim Amla was caught by Michael Clarke at slip. Soon after, Jacques Rudolph was caught by Ed Cowan at short leg to give the spinner another dismissal.

Alviro Petersen, on 24, was then bowled by Peter Siddle before AB de Villiers, 12 not out, and Faf du Plessis, 19 not out, took the visitors to the close.

To contact the reporter on this story: James Cone in London at jcone@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Christopher Elser at celser@bloomberg.net.