Adam Bailey
DeanoHarmo1st Test in the Balance
December 17th 2008 13:07
Category: Australia vs South Africa
Andrew Symonds fired for the Aussies in the first Test
Ricky Ponting finally had the coin roll his way and decided that his team would be first to swing the willow.
It did not look like a great decision when Ntini picked up the wickets of Hayden (12) and Ponting(0) in consecutive deliveries.
Nor did it please the Australian captain when Hussey was dismissed by South African speed man Steyn for a duck. 1st round to the tourists.
The hosts were 3/15 when future Australian captain Michael Clarke joined Simon Katich at the crease.
The two were able to muster a 149 run partnership to get the Aussies back on track. Katich was churning the runs out like he has all year while Clarke was battling to construct his innings.
Both batsmen deserved to make centuries but fell in quick succession; Katich for 83 and Clarke for 62.
At this stage the honours were even and the only disappointing factor was that one of Australian's had not kicked on to reach three figures.
Andrew Symonds walked out to the middle and soon shook off both his nerves and his critics. In true form, Roy hit a quick fire 57 and looked the goods.
But just as Australia looked as though they were gaining the upper hand, the Proteas hit back with the wickets of Symonds and Hadden (46).
At the end of the day the Aussies are 9/341 with the tale wagging a little to boost the total. It is not the desired amount but at least it gives the Aussie bowlers the chance to attack the tourists.
If the South Africans are able to build upon their starts to an innings then they should gain the upper hand in this Test.
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