Australia were 185-4 in their second innings at tea on day three of the fiercely contested first Test against South Africa.
Captain Ricky Ponting hit his second half-century of the match before being caught behind off Makhaya Ntini. Brad Hodge was not out on 22 with Michael Hussey on one with Australia 147 runs ahead.
Australia had started the day in bright style at 38-1 with night-watchman Brett Lee and opener Justin Langer adding 48 runs to the overnight tally before the first breakthrough.
Lee, who had batted confidently, was trapped in front by Charl Langeveldt for 32 but seemed surprised to be given out by West Indian umpire Billy Doctrove, although replays showed the decision was correct.
South Africa were denied the opportunity to gain the upper-hand when Ponting was spared while on four.
The captain had attempted a pull shot off Langeveldt, only to hit a high catch to Jacques Rudolph at forward square leg, who took it brilliantly with his left hand.
But Doctrove, a former international football referee, ruled the delivery a no-ball, although replays showed Langeveldt’s front foot was safely on the crease.
It was a crucial moment in the match with Ponting going on to make 53 before behind caught just before tea. The Australian also survived a confident lbw appeal off Langeveldt while on 46.
The home side batted ponderously after lunch, adding just 65 runs from 27 overs during the second session.
Apart from Ponting, only one other wicket fell after lunch, when Justin Langer chopped Shaun Pollock onto his stumps to be out for 47 almost straight after the break.
Langer had returned with Matthew Hayden as a runner after straining his left hamstring just before the interval. – Sapa-AFP