Hayden, Ponting set up Aussies victory pursuit

Australia is in a commanding position heading into the final day of its second Test against South Africa in Durban following centuries to Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting.

The home side may fancy themselves to score the runs to level the series at one all, with all ten wickets still left in the shed, but facing a ruthless Australian attack will be tough going.

The Australians picked up where they left off the day prior, with Hayden and Ponting continuing their magnificent form, scoring a century each – with the captain backing up his first innings ton with another – all but sealing his place as the best batsman in world cricket.

In reaching his 100, Ponting rose to second on the list of Australian century makers, requiring only three more tons to surpass record holder Steve Waugh, who currently sits on 32.

The day began against the backdrop of the controversy surrounding Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, who was allegedly involved in an argument with Proteas skipper Graeme Smith at Cape Town nightclub following the first Test.

Ponting and Hayden were steady at first before picking up the pace, both out shortly after reaching their centuries, searching for quick runs prior to a declaration, looking to carry an imposing lead into the final day.

The hard-hitting Adam Gilchrist was promoted up the order with Ponting looking to deflate the already dejected Protea attack.

The explosive wicketkeeper did just that, bashing and crashing his way to a quick fire 24 off only nine balls – including a 22 run barrage on one Andre Nel over, triggering an outburst from the outspoken South African.

When Gilchrist fell, Ponting called time on the innings; Australia leading by 410 runs with over a days play remaining.

South African openers Graeme Smith and AB de Villiers were untroubled in their brief spell at the crease prior to stumps, requiring another 381 runs for victory with ten wickets in hand.

Australia will be relying on its champion leg spinner Shane Warne to spin the side to victory on a Durban pitch which is expected to crumble.

The only query for the Australians is the weather – with rain predicted to hit Durban during the day.

This news will only please South Africa, who will be looking to draw (with a victory looking unlikely) the match, and then square the series in the third Test, to be played in Johannesburg.

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