On Tuesday, the Proteas declared their first innings on 425/9, built around Bavuma’s outstanding 179, with Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer also making valuable contributions of 85 and 82 respectively.

South Africa resumed the day on 97/5, with Bavuma unbeaten on 41 and Wiaan Mulder on two. However, Mulder’s stay at the crease was short-lived, as he was dismissed for 13 with the score on 110.

Temba Bavuam navigated the pace of Australia with aplomb - Cricinfo

With the Proteas under pressure, Jansen joined Bavuma at the crease and helped turn the innings around in emphatic fashion. The pair put together a crucial 132-run partnership for the seventh wicket, frustrating the Australian attack and shifting the momentum back in South Africa’s favour.

Jansen played with authority, striking nine fours and three sixes in his impressive knock before eventually departing for 85.

Harmer then picked up where Jansen left off, continuing to frustrate the visitors with a determined innings of 82. The spinner struck ten fours and a six, ensuring the Proteas’ lower order made the most of the platform established by their captain.

Bavuma eventually fell after facing 334 deliveries, having struck 13 fours and a six in an innings that underlined his class, patience and determination under pressure.

Australia’s Scott Boland was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 5/81, while left-arm quick Mitchell Starc finished with 3/89.

The Proteas made an immediate breakthrough in Australia’s second innings, with Kagiso Rabada dismissing Nic Maddinson for a duck. At stumps, the visitors were reeling on 3/1, leaving South Africa firmly in control heading into day four.

Marco Jansen and Temba Bavuma - Cricinfo

Reflecting on his outstanding innings, Bavuma said he was particularly pleased to have helped his side recover from a difficult position and post a competitive total.

“I walked into a tricky situation, with the conditions, the overheads and the wicket all favouring the bowlers, and we had lost two early wickets,” said Bavuma.

“I’ve found myself in those situations quite a few times, and I think it brings out the best in me. My approach was no different – I wanted to get stuck in and pride myself on getting the team into a competitive position.

“From a personal point of view, the difference this time was being able to go on and make a score, which was very pleasing.”

The Proteas skipper was also full of praise for the contributions of Jansen, Ryan Rickelton and Harmer, highlighting the importance of the partnerships that helped South Africa wrestle control of the contest.

“Marco came in on the back of the foundation and momentum created by Rickelton,” Bavuma added.

“He took the attack on and found the middle of the bat and the gaps for a considerable period. Simon also applied himself well, and I think he was very unlucky not to get closer to a century.

Spinner Simon Harmer didn't hold back with the willow - Cricinfo

“The guys showed real application and put a high price on their wickets. Part of our plan was to keep Australia in the field for as long as possible, and I think that paid off when we were able to take that wicket towards the end.”

With a substantial first-innings lead already secured and Rabada striking early, the Proteas will look to tighten their grip on the match when play resumes on Wednesday morning. Play at St George’s Park gets underway at 9:45.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport