Statistics - Australia vs South Africa

South Africa retained the top spot in the ICC Test rankings after beating Australia by 309 runs in the third and final Test clinch the series 1-0.

South Africa ruined Ricky Ponting's farewell with an emphatic 309-run victory over Australia in the third Test to clinch the three-match series 1-0.

Ricky Ponting was dismissed for eight in his final Test innings on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a 17-year career that saw him become the second-greatest run scorer in history.

Amla and de Villiers drove Proteas to a commanding lead of 631 runs before they were dismissed for 569 on the third day of the third Test against Australia.

South Africa produced a dominant performance with bat and ball as they powered their way into an almost unassailable position on day two of the third Test at the WACA on Saturday.

After South Africa were bowled out for 225, Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander struck early blows to leave Australia at 33 for 2 at stumps on Day 1.

South Africa captain Graeme Smith won the toss and chose to bat first in the third and potentially decisive final Test against Australia at the WACA in Perth.

South Africa and Australia will both be forced to call on fringe players when the number one ranking in Test cricket goes on the line in the final Test in Perth.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting called time on his Test career, announcing this week's clash against South Africa in Perth will be his last

CA has today announced a 14-player squad for the third Vodafone Test against South Africa starting Friday at the WACA Ground.