England cricket team stay on top - thanks to Aussies
22/11/2011
England are now guaranteed to remain as the number one ranked Test cricket team when they next take to the field in a five-day game against Pakistan in January, after South Africa lost the Johannesburg Test to Australia by two wickets.
Set 310 to win, Australia scraped home to level the series at 1-1, ending the slim hopes South Africa had of overtaking England, which would have required them to win both matches against Australia and three against Sri Lanka.
Those enjoying corporate hospitality at Lords next summer can see England bid to stay in front when they play the South Africans in a three-match series.
Australia's win came after an astounding first Test in Cape Town, where they lost by eight wickets after bowling the hosts out for just 96, only to then crumble for a mere 47.
Their comeback win owed much to the debut heroics of teenage fast bowler Pat Cummins, who took six for 79 in the second innings.
By Keith Prowse
