A soap opera until the very end

A stunning last hour turned a fascinating Test match upon its head. South Africa looked a beaten side. And then things started to happen, writes Peter Roebcuk in the Witness.

The fourth day's play at the Wanderers was intense, exciting cricket as 22 players fought with every ounce of their remaining strength to secure the spoils for their country. Roebuck takes in the day's play while suggesting that more than any of the Tests played this summer, this contest offered a perfect preparation for the coming Ashes series.