South Africa storms back

Ricky Ponting, seeking to help Australia end a difficult year brightly, made a splendid century on the first day of the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, but South Africa fought back to gain the edge.

Ponting overcame an uncertain period early in his stay on Boxing Day to score a rapid 101 — his fourth hundred at the MCG and 37th overall. But South Africa, looking to seal the three-Test series after the record win at Perth, restricted Australia to 280 for six in 90 overs.

Dale Steyn bowled a sharp, impressive spell in the middle session, finishing Friday with figures of two for 61 from 21 overs. Makhaya Ntini – who won the momentum for South Africa late in the day, having Brad Haddin caught at first slip for 40 – ended with two wickets as well.

Seamer Morne Morkel and left-arm spinner Paul Harris claimed a wicket apiece.

Earlier, South Africa lost the toss before Ntini broke through, forcing the out-of-form Matthew Hayden to slice to point. Ponting then added 107 with Simon Katich (54) for the second wicket in a partnership that stabilised the innings and also grabbed the initiative.