Inglis Hits 102 as Australia Press Cape Town Test Advantage

Josh Inglis scored 102 as Australia built a first-innings lead of 100 runs before South Africa finished Thursday’s third day of the deciding Cape Town Test on 140 for four.

The hosts led by 40 at stumps, with six second-innings wickets remaining. Australia’s 429 had overtaken South Africa’s first-innings 329, giving the tourists a position from which to press for a series-clinching result.

How Inglis built Australia’s first-innings lead

Inglis had resumed on 85 after helping Australia reach 330 for four overnight. His century turned that overnight advantage into a more substantial first-innings total, though Australia did not bat South Africa out of the contest.

He reached his second Test hundred before being dismissed for 102. The innings came after a late call-up into the side because Steve Smith’s neck problem prevented the veteran from playing.

Australia had entered the morning only one run ahead, with six wickets available. The eventual 100-run margin therefore represented a further 99 runs added during Thursday’s play before the innings ended.

South Africa’s reply then changed the shape of the match again. By passing the deficit, the hosts ensured Australia would need to bat a second time, while the loss of four wickets limited their room to build a large target.

The late wicket and fourth-day position

Nathan Lyon’s late dismissal of Temba Bavuma was a significant closing moment. It prevented the South African captain from carrying his innings into the fourth day and left Australia with a clearer opening.

The official close-of-play score supersedes the earlier lunchtime updates. South Africa’s lead was 40 at stumps, rather than Australia still holding the first-innings advantage described during the morning session.

Australia won the opening Test in Durban by 214 runs before South Africa won by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha.

The series entered this decisive final match level at one win each. With two scheduled playing days remaining, the next phase centers on how far South Africa can extend its lead before Australia begins the final innings.