A sensational innings from Hashim Amla has put South Africa in firm control of the third Test match with Australia.
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Amla came to the crease with South Africa on 28-1, and in the space of 31 overs, produced an unbeaten knock of 99 to leave his side 230-2 at the close of play, with a lead of 292 runs.
Australia resumed day three on 33-2, but by lunch, they had slumped to 118-7 with Ricky Ponting being dismissed for four by Vernon Philander.
Wicket-keeper Matthew Wade made 68 but he was unable to prevent his side being bowled out for 163, leaving them 62 runs behind South Africa.
Alviro Petersen hit a 20-ball 23 before he was caught and bowled by Mitchell Johnson to bring Amla to the crease.
He began his knock in sharp contrast to the 11 runs off 43 balls he produced in the first innings by manoeuvring the ball to all corners of the Perth outfield.
Captain Graeme Smith was acting as an effective foil for Amla's aggressive hitting but he finally fell for 84 to Mitchell Starc.
Amla had one eye on sealing his century before the close of play but he fell agonisingly short as stumps was called for the day with South Africa in a commanding position.
Darren Plant
