South Africa make solid start

South Africa made a solid start in their second innings as they set out to salvage the first Test against Australia at the Wanderers Stadium here on Sunday.

South Africa were 57 for no wicket at tea after being set to make a record 454 in the final innings of the match - 40 more than they achieved against the same opponents in Perth last December. That was four fewer than the world record successful fourth innings chase of 418 set by the West Indies against Australia in 2002/03. Neil McKenzie and captain Graeme Smith were both on 28 not out at the interval.

Australia collapsed to 207 all out in their second innings but remained in a powerful position on a pitch which has helped the bowlers throughout.

JOHANNESBURG, Sunday AFP