Australia face huge task to save Test

Published on 03/12/2012 01:55

CRICKET: Australia need a daunting 592 runs to win the third Test against South Africa after the tourists dominated the third day at Perth.

Hashim Amla and AB De Villiers both made big hundreds as the Proteas looked well set to win the three-match series 1-0.

Amla fell just short of a double-century and De Villiers made 169 as Graeme Smith’s men closed their second innings on 569 to set the home side a victory target of 632. They closed on 40 without loss.

South Africa had taken control of the series decider on day two and closed at 230 for two, 292 runs in front.

Australia’s reply had reached 40 without loss, with David Warner on 29 and Ed Cowan nine not out from 13 overs when the third day’s play came to a close. That left the home side still needing 592 runs to win or two days to bat out and draw.