Australia face steep chase as South Africa dominate day five in Cape Town Test

South Africa continued to press their advantage on day five of the fifth Test in Cape Town, reducing Australia to 7-60 and setting a target of 228 runs for a series win. Early wickets fell as Mitch Starc was dismissed for a 25-ball duck, caught at bat-pad, and off-spinner Simon Harmer claimed three wickets in quick succession, including the dismissals of Alex Carey and Cam Green.

Harmer’s spell, introduced after just 11 overs, produced sharp turn and bounce, prompting commentator Mark Howard to note that “it’s gone from bad to worse” for the Australian side. South Africa’s pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada, also made inroads, with Rabada taking the wicket of Travis Head, his 350th Test dismissal.

Australia’s top order struggled to settle, with Travis Head, Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne all falling early. The hosts’ batting was described as “horrendous” in shot selection compared with the disciplined approach of South African batsmen on day four.

At the close of the session, Australia required 246 runs with only two wickets in hand, while South Africa’s bowlers maintained pressure, aiming to clinch the series.