SA defiant in levelling series
4th ODI - Australia v South Africa
Graeme Smith set an electrifying pace to the South Africa innings, but excellent bowling from Shaun Tait and Glenn McGrath helped keep the visitors at 281-9 after they were inserted to bat first. Smith's 86 from 72 balls was the starring attraction of the effort, though AB de Villiers (42) and Jacques Kallis (48) also contributed handily to the cause. Tait bowled an outstanding late spell and finished with figures of 3-59.
Chasing 282 and a series-sealing victory, the Aussies were off to a good start as well. Adam Gilchrist and Shane Watson continued to bat well in partnership, and added 77 for the first wicket. It was Kallis who struck first for South Africa, and he was to prove the key bowler, following Watson's wicket with that of Gilchrist for 55. Kallis then dismissed Clarke, who threatened with 32 from 34 balls, and ended with 3-56 from his 10 overs.
Shaun Pollock and Andrew Hall also claimed 3 wickets apiece, all pressing toward bowling out Australia for 227 for victory by 54 runs.
South Africa 281-9 (50 overs)
GC Smith 84, JH Kallis 48, AB de Villiers 42
SW Tait 3-59, NW Bracken 2-55
Australia 227 all out (45 overs)
AC Gilchrist 55, RT Ponting 35, MJ Clarke 32
SM Pollock 3-52, JH Kallis 3-56, AJ Hall 3-34
South Africa won by 54 runs.
Man of the Match: JH Kallis