Mitchell Johnson and Ryan Harris tore apart South Africa’s batting line-up as Australia put themselves in a commanding position on day three of the third test in Cape Town.

After dismissing the hosts for 287, Australia decided not to enforce the follow-on as they ended the day on 27-0, with a lead of 234 runs.

Following Australia’s declaration on 494 for 7, the bowling duo of Johnson and Harris took seven wickets for 105 runs as Darren Lehmann’s side put South Africa to the sword.

The South Africans failed to get going in their response to the visitors’ mammoth first innings score, with only Alviro Petersen (53) and Francois du Plessis (67) managing half centuries.

While Harris may have taken impressive figures of 3 for 63, it was the stunning 4 for 42 of Johnson which really dented the Proteas’ prospects in this final test.

With the series tied at 1-1, Australia's strong position in this final game means they are well and truly in the driving seat to claim a valuable series win.

More to follow.