South Africa host the series decider in Cape Town, but Australia lead by one run with six wickets in hand heading into day three.
South Africa's Proteas are fighting for a series win on home soil, and day three of the decider at Newlands in Cape Town promises to be a pivotal one. Play starts at 10.30am local time (8.30am GMT), with the Proteas needing early breakthroughs to claw back control.
Day two belonged to the tourists. After South Africa were bowled out for 329, Australia hit back to reach 330 for four, a lead of one run. Almost every Australian batter put in a long stint at the crease, and the visitors wrested back momentum after a wild opening day.
The Proteas did land some blows. Twice they struck twice in quick succession to knock promising Australian partnerships off course. Twice, though, the Australians regrouped and rebuilt. Josh Inglis and Alex Carey then combined to push the visitors in front, leaving them well placed with six wickets still in hand.
That sets up a huge morning at Newlands. If South Africa can remove the set batters early and limit Australia's lead, the contest stays wide open. If Australia's lower order keeps grinding, the hosts could find themselves chasing the game against a mountainous backdrop and a series on the line.
