Sizzling Siddle stuns Saffa’s!

Victorian paceman Peter Siddle has stunned the South Africans and the fans by claiming his first 5-wicket-haul on day 3 of the New Years test to clean up the tail. On the day renamed ‘Jane McGrath day’ he recorded his best innings figures of 5/59 and kept Australia’s hopes of retaining the number 1 test side in the world strong, as he assisted in bowling out South Africa for 327, 118 in deficit to Aussies first innings total of 445.

At one stage the South African’s comeback was looking strong, as Boucher and Morkel had added 115, taking the visitors to 5/308 in reply to Australia’s first innings total. But then Siddle struck, and in 22 balls took 4/7 to bundle out the visitors quickly. Johnson (2/69 and a run out) and McDonald (1/41) took the remaining 3 wickets, keeping in mind that Australia only needed 9 wickets after captain Greame Smith’s decision to retire hurt after breaking his finger yesterday from a Mitchell Johnson delivery that reared up sharply.

 Doug Bollinger failed to take a wicket but bowled excellent, and deserved a wicket. He had an LBW should that Hawkeye proved was hitting the stumps comfortably, and has many a edge fall short of a fieldsman or hit the gap between two fielders.

Australia made a successful start to their second innings, safely negotiating the 6 overs, only having the one shout against them. Hayden showed signs of his old form, ending the day on 18 off 23 deliveries. Australian fans will be hoping he can continue tomorrow and post a big score, helping Australia to a lead of 300+.