Australian captain Michael Clarke hit an aggressive century to cancel out some superb fast bowling by South Africa's Dale Steyn on the first day of the first Test at Newlands here on Wednesday.
Clarke hit 107 not out in an Australian total of 214 for eight, while Steyn proved a constant threat to the batsmen on a seam-friendly surface, taking four for 31. New cap Vernon Philander took three for 54.
Shaun Marsh was the only top order batsman to provide meaningful support to Clarke, making 44 and helping his captain put on 103 for the fourth wicket. For the rest it was a struggle after Australia were sent in to bat on a day restricted by rain and bad light to 55 overs.
Australia crashed to 40 for three before Clarke was the dominant partner as he and Marsh revived Australia's fortunes. Marsh contributed only 27 of the 103 runs added by the pair but played a valuable supporting role while Clarke counter-attacked.
Graeme Smith's decision to send Australia in quickly paid off as Steyn claimed the wickets of Shane Watson and Ricky Ponting, while Philander had Phil Hughes caught behind after rain delayed the start by almost two hours.Clarke was given a torrid time by Steyn at the start of his innings before going for his shots when Steyn was replaced by Jacques Kallis.
{{/usCountry}}Graeme Smith's decision to send Australia in quickly paid off as Steyn claimed the wickets of Shane Watson and Ricky Ponting, while Philander had Phil Hughes caught behind after rain delayed the start by almost two hours.Clarke was given a torrid time by Steyn at the start of his innings before going for his shots when Steyn was replaced by Jacques Kallis.
{{/usCountry}}Clarke scored 40 of the runs as the stand with Marsh became worth 50, reached 5000 runs in Test when his score was on 44, and hurried to his fifty off only 56 balls with nine fours.