Australia wrapped up the first Test in South Africa by 281 runs on day four courtesy of another world class bowling performance from Mitchell Johnson.
Johnson took five wickets as the visiting Aussies wrapped up South Africa’s second innings in slightly under a day’s work after captain Michael Clarke declared 15 minutes into day four.
Mitchell Johnson Shreds Proteas On Day Two
Behind 115 from David Warner and a further 89 from Alex Doolan on day three, Clarke pulled the pin with himself at the crease on an unbeaten 17 after Shaun Marsh was caught at 44, setting the Proteas a target of 484 with two days to play.
The diminishing conditions of the Centurion pitch didn’t work in the home side’s favour and another batting collapse set in.
Mitchell Johnson claimed the quick scalps of Alviro Petersen and Graeme Smith to sink South Africa to 2-12 before Faf du Pleiss was given leg before wicket to Peter Siddle at 3-49.
Clarke gave the ball over to Siddle, Ryan Harris, spinner Nathan Lyon and even two efficient overs from Warner before Johnson returned to dismiss a semi-revival from the middle order.
He went on to take out Jean-Paul Duminy (10), Ryan McLaren (6) and danger man AB de Villiers (48) to put the result beyond doubt.
More to come
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