South Africa are firmly in the driving seat after a commanding day in the field, during which they claimed 13 wickets to tighten their grip on the match and put themselves within touching distance of levelling the series.

The Baggy Greens were forced to follow on after being bundled out for just 99 in their first innings, leaving the Proteas firmly in contention for an innings victory. However, with Australia showing greater resistance in their second innings, the battle is far from over.

Marco Jansen removed Scott Boland. Photo: Cricinfo

After South Africa declared their first innings on a formidable 429/5, Australia resumed their reply at 3/1 on Wednesday morning. Their first innings lasted just 42.3 overs, with Steve Smith top-scoring on 28, while Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne contributed 14 runs apiece.

Towering all-rounder Marco Jansen, who had earlier smashed a superb 85 with the bat, continued his outstanding performance by ripping through the Australian batting line-up. He claimed 5/33 in 11 overs, while Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder chipped in with two wickets each.

Australia showed more fight in their second innings, but they still have plenty of work to do to avoid defeat. At stumps, they were 156/4, with Head digging in impressively to remain unbeaten on 87. Labuschagne provided support with 39 as the visitors attempted to keep the Proteas at bay.

Rabada spearheaded South Africa’s attack in the second innings, claiming 2/30 in 11 overs, while spinner Simon Harmer finished the day with figures of 2/47 from 18 overs.

Speaking after the fourth day’s play, Jansen said the team’s position was hugely encouraging, although the Proteas were under no illusions about the work still required to seal the victory.

“The first two days were affected by rain, so we knew we had to try and bowl Australia out as quickly as possible, either in the first or second innings,” said Jansen.

Travis Head was dismissed for 14 in the first innings. Photo: Cricinfo

“I’m very happy with how it turned out and that we capitalised on the wickets and the new ball. The guys bowled with great intent and energy, and it’s one thing to bowl well, but another to have your fielders backing you up.

“Harmie took some absolute stunners, and Sauce (Aiden Markram) also pulled off a great catch at second slip. Everything basically went our way, and that’s a great feeling.”

Jansen also praised captain Temba Bavuma, whose magnificent 179 in the first innings laid the foundation for South Africa’s commanding position. He stressed that a collective effort on the final day would be essential if the Proteas were to finish the job and level the series.

“I think it’s Temba’s leadership, coupled with the group of guys we have, that makes a big difference,” Jansen added.

“We might not have the most Test experience across the board, but players like Temba, Sauce, and KG, as well as Harmie, who has played a lot of red-ball cricket, play a massive role.

“They share advice, offer encouragement and help when things aren’t going well. As a playing group, we back Temba’s decisions.

1st Test hero Matt Renshaw was bowled out by Kagiso Rabada for 11. Photo: Cricinfo

“We might not always understand them on the day, but we have confidence in him. Whatever he decides, it’s our job as players to do our best and back him up as a group.”

With the series hanging in the balance, the fifth and final day promises plenty of drama. Australia need another 170 runs to make South Africa bat again, while the Proteas will be hunting early wickets to bring the contest to a swift conclusion.

Play at St George’s Park resumes at 09:45.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs