Sydney: Australia's under-fire top order was again severely tested at the SCG, where South Africa's attack picked off six wickets one first day and refused to let Australia build any momentum. At the break Michael Clarke loomed as the key for Australia and they were also MG Johnson 17.

Opener Matthew Hayden struggled for his uncomfortable 31 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground as cautious Australia reached 267 for six. Dale Steyn claimed Hayden after he had faced 78 balls.

Australia got off to a good start, with opener Simon Katich and Hayden providing some resistance. But the quick dismissal of Katich and Ricky Ponting left the hosts reeling at 78/2 at lunch. Morkel sent Ponting back for a duck.

Mike Hussey made 30 runs in 99 balls before being caught out by Kallis off Harris. Australia won the toss in overcast conditions and elected to bat first.

Australia trail 2-0 in the three-match series and are desperate to claim this match to avoid a South African clean sweep. The Proteas can also take the top ranking from Australia if they win at Sydney. South Africa's day, for the most, and they should have taken stumps a lot more pleased if not for that Clarke drop by Amla not too long ago.

After winning the toss and batting first in overcast conditions, Australia lost Katich and Ponting during a tense first session. Katich looked in good touch in racing to 47 from 52 balls before he was out, and one run later the in-form Ponting was on his way for a first-ball duck.

Reports by session:
1st Session: Runs 78, Wkt 2, Ovr 24
2nd Session: Runs 77, Wkt 2, Ovr 28
3rd Session: Runs 112, Wkt 2, Ovr 36

Brief Score: Australia 1st innings 267 for six (MJ Clarke 73*, SM Katich 47, DW Steyn 2/71) vs South Africa.
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