South Africa force draw in first test against Australia

South Africa battled through an uncomfortable day at the Gabba to reach 166 for five and earn a draw in the first test against Australia, who declared on 565-5 halfway through Tuesday's first session to try and force a result.

Australia captain Michael Clarke, who made 259 not out, declared with a first innings lead of 115 over South Africa's 450, but his bowlers were unable to claim enough wickets to force a result in a test which lost a whole day to rain.

Jacques Rudolph (11) was adjudged lbw to spinner Nathan Lyon despite a television review to give Australia a late glimmer of hope but AB de Villiers (29) and Vernon Philander (one) ushered the tourists to the close of play.

It was unfortunate not to get a result today, said Clarke, who was named Man of the Match for his record innings.

But I think we fought hard with both bat and ball after the first day.

James Pattinson, the pick of Australia's bowlers, had given the hosts an early breakthrough by having opener Alviro Petersen caught behind by wicketkeeper Matthew Wade for five to leave South Africa on 6-1.

The 22-year-old seamer also bowled Hashim Amla for seven before lunch but the world's number one batsman was brought back to the crease for a no ball, the fourth wicket to be saved by the same infraction in the match.

The second wicket also came off Pattinson, who had a fiery exchange with Graeme Smith (23) before tempting the South African captain into an outside edge that Rob Quiney claimed well at gully.

Australia fruitlessly used both of their referrals as they ramped up the pressure on the South Africans and just when Amla and Jacques Kallis looked to be getting on top of the bowlers, they were separated.

... contd.

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