It was always going to be a difficult task for the Aussies to make a comeback in the four-match Test series against the Proteas especially after what happened in the 3rd Test at the Newlands.
It was also going to be difficult for the newly appointed Aussie skipper to come to terms with what transpired. Paine was nowhere in the picture for a place in the team a few months, and suddenly he has been made the captain of the national side.
The Proteas were simply brilliant in the 1st innings and posted 488 runs on the board. It was largely built around a sensational knock of 153 runs by Aiden Markram. He struck 17 fours and a six during his knock and looked in complete control of proceedings. Australia was jolted early losing half their side for less than 100 runs.
Philander, Rabada and Keshav Maharaj all chipped in with three wickets each, as Australia were bowled out for 222 runs. It was a 99 runs partnership between skipper Tim Paine and Pat Cummins which helped Australia get past the 200-mark. Despite the resistance, South Africa secured a huge lead of 267 runs.
The hosts got off to a steady start, as the centurion from the 1st innings began with some delightful shots. Markram smashed four boundaries during his knock of 36 before getting dismissed.
Amla and de Villiers were quick to depart, as South Africa were reduced to 94/3. However, it was comeback man Faf du Plessis who scored a sensational century and enabled the hosts to set Australia a target of 600 runs.
Australia was never in the match, as they kept losing wickets at consistent intervals. Vernon Philander was simply brilliant and ended with magical figures of 6/21. It was courtesy his spell that South Africa bowled the Aussies out for a mere 119 runs.
Courtesy his spell; Philander was also awarded the Player of the Match Award. Here is what he had to say in the post-match presentation ceremony,
“Wow, what can I say; an awesome way to finish off this Test match. It is pretty emotional for all of us given that it was Morne’s last match. I was a little rusty to the crease to start off; I made sure I had good momentum and stayed stable in the crease. I found my rhythm from this end, and eventually, it all came right. [200 Test wickets] It is special and is just a matter of taking as many as I can. We are going to miss Morne, the way he’s carried himself off the field, his jokes in the dressing room and I want to wish him the best for all his future endeavours.”
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