Australia were all out for 163 in the middle session, giving South Africa a 62-run first-innings lead despite their own modest total of 225.
Matt Wade (68 from 102) provided the only rearguard action by scoring his half-century at a run-a-ball before eventually getting bowled attempting a sweep off spinner Robin Petersen (3-44).
South Africa thought they were in trouble at 6-75 on day one, but Australia found themselves 6-45 just six overs into day two.
Keeper Wade blasted (68) three sixes and seven boundaries in a fearless knock from a player under pressure.
Australia needed more from the top and must fight back hard if they want to put themselves in a position to win the series, steal the No.1 ranking from their opponents and send Ponting out a winner.
Matt Wade (68 from 102) provided the only rearguard action by scoring his half-century at a run-a-ball before eventually getting bowled attempting a sweep off spinner Robin Petersen (3-44).
South Africa thought they were in trouble at 6-75 on day one, but Australia found themselves 6-45 just six overs into day two.
Keeper Wade blasted (68) three sixes and seven boundaries in a fearless knock from a player under pressure.
Australia needed more from the top and must fight back hard if they want to put themselves in a position to win the series, steal the No.1 ranking from their opponents and send Ponting out a winner.
