Vernon Philander dominates Australia to reach 200 Test wickets

(Photo: Getty Images)

By Adam Ellis

Vernon Philander claimed six wickets for just 12 runs as South Africa recorded their first Test series win over Australia on home soil since the nation’s readmission into the international cricket circuit.

Philander blew Australia away during an eight-over spell at the Wanderers that led to an emphatic 492-run victory – Australia’s second heaviest defeat in their Test history.

Australia started day five on 88-3 but were dismissed for 119 all out, after Philander’s onslaught saw the 32-year-old surpass 200 Test wickets.

The match ended on a positive note for Morne Morkel, who brought to an end 86-Test career for South Africa with match figures of 3-62.

While Australia head coach Darren Lehmann will be stepping down following the ball-tampering saga which rocked Australian cricket last week.

Lehmann had planned to leave his post when his contract expired after the 2019 Ashes series in England but has walked prematurely after the events which followed the third Test in Cape Town involving Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

“It’s sad, but I’m also going on to spend some time with my family as well and I know they’re looking forward to that,” Lehmann told cricket.com.au.

“But it’s sad because it’s been a great journey with lots of highs, some lows along the way. All in all it’s been a fantastic time being head coach. It’s a job I’ve loved and watching the boys play some good cricket along the way.”

For South Africa, their start to their 2018 schedule has been near perfect with series wins over India (2-1) and Australia (3-1) to celebrate.