Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer's opening partnership at the end of the day put into perspective just how good this Cape Town pitch is. Newlands is usually a beautiful batting strip from the word go, and therefore great credit has to go to the Australian bowling attack for the way they disposed of the top six South African batsmen.

More interestingly, the cheeky and defiant stand between Andrew Hall and Paul Adams showed just how shell-shocked the South African top order are.

I have always admired Adams's spirit, even when he is batting. His famous innings against England in 1995-96 is a case in point, and although he has often been criticised heavily, I have thought him capable of taking wickets at this level, mainly because he is so unique.

Like Murali and Warne, who are special bowlers, Adams too is different and should have been persevered with in the five-day game. He is not overawed by any opposition, shows no fear, and has always been a real competitor. Hall is confident too - he should be, having survived being mugged at a cash point and shot three or four times.

His innings was typical of someone who has not been on the receiving end of a beating from these Australians, and shows what can be achieved. His approach is competitive and he has no psychological hangovers - just simple determination. I like what I see.

But this of course is all to no avail as Australia start on the inevitable path towards another win. How long the game goes depends entirely on how long the Aussies bat and whether SA have the stomach for a fight.

It is desperate to watch if you support South Africa, but you have to admire the persistence, the power and the skill of the Australians and the captaincy of Steve Waugh.

Bob Woolmer, South Africa's coach from 1994 to 1999, will be writing the Wisden Verdict throughout the series.

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