South Africa left frustrated by Australia's tail-enders as Mitchell Starc hits first half-century since 2019
Mitchell Starc produced one of the most important innings' of his career, hitting his first half-century in six years to keep Australia alive in the World Test Championship final.
Starc started day three at 16 not out with Australia leading by 218 runs.
He lost Nathan Lyon early when Kagiso Rabada trapped him in front for 2.
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As Australia's innings looked like it would end early, Josh Hazlewood and Starc powered on to frustrate South Africa.
Starc's innings would be even more annoying for the Proteas since Marco Jansen dropped him during the final over on day two.
Mitchell Starc acknowledges the crowd after his half-century. Getty
The left-hander then passed 50 after 192 minutes and 131 balls.
"Very important 50, I wonder where this ranks in the milestones for Mitchell Starc with the bat," Kevin Pietersen said on Amazon Prime.
"He's grinding away and showing the South Africans how hard it is to beat Australia."
Starc's last half-century was in 2019 when he scored 54 not out against England in Manchester.
Moments later, Hazlewood was caught at cover by Keshav Maharaj off Aiden Markram, walking off the field for 17.
As a result, Australia were bowled out for 207, leading by 281 runs.
"Mitchell Starc has been outstanding, really good innings," Pietersen said.
