Ntini bursts the Australian bubble

South Africa were 38 without loss in reply with AB de Villers on 14 and captain Graeme Smith on 18.

Apart from Ponting’s punchy innings it was a dour day for the Australians who won the toss and elected to bat on a wicket which played fairly true. They got off to a terrible start with Matthew Hayden pulling an Ntini delivery skyward and into the hands of Jacques Rudolph before a run had been scored.

Ponting, who blasted a dozen fours in his 71, and Justin Langer gave the home side something to cheer about as they reached lunch at 96-1.

Ntini brought the partnership to an end as he dismissed Langer for 37 through another botched pull to Smith at mid-off. Shaun Pollock then trapped Ponting lbw for 71 with a ball which nipped back from the off side.

Australia were still in command at 173 for three at tea but endured a horrendous evening session. One-day specialist Andrew Symonds made 13, wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist six and hometown hopeful Michael Hussey 23 as the middle order folded.

Brief scores

Australia (1st Innings): 258 (Langer 37, Ponting 71, Hodge 41; Ntini 5/64, Nel 3/29) vs South Africa (1st Innings): 38/0 (de Villiers batting 14, Smith batting 18).