The New Nation - Internet Edition

BBC Online

South Africa need 314 runs on the final day of the third Test if they are to complete a clean sweep of the series after reaching 62-1 at stumps. Australia took their overnight 33-0 to 257-4, with Matthew Hayden making 39, his highest Test score of the series. Simon Katich scored 61 and Ricky Ponting 53 before the skipper declared.

The visitors, set 376 to win, lost makeshift opener Morne Morkel without scoring but Neil McKenzie and Hashim Amla saw play through to stumps. South Africa will usurp their opponents at the top of the Test-match rankings if they can clinch victory on what should be a fascinating final day in Sydney.

Australia have an inexperienced attack, while South Africa successfully chased down 414 to win the first Test in Perth.

Nonetheless, it will be a difficult assignment for the visiting team.

Skipper Graeme Smith is unlikely to bat again after injuring his hand in the first innings of the third Test. And the pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground is showing signs of wear, while Australia's 288-2 against the Proteas in the 2005-06 season is the highest fourth innings total to win a Test at the ground.