Josh Inglis and Alex Carey put Australia in a strong position in the series-deciding third Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town, on Wednesday. Australia reached 330 for four at stumps on Day 2, taking a one-run lead after South Africa's first-innings total of 329.Josh Inglis and Alex Carey put Australia in a strong position in the series-deciding third Test (AP Photo) Brief Scores: Australia (330/4) lead South Africa (329) by one run at stumps on Day 2Josh Inglis scored an unbeaten 85 while Alex Carey made 51 not out as Australia reached 330 for four at stumps on Day 2 of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands, taking a slender one-run lead in the series decider on Wednesday.Australia's revamped batting order responded well after South Africa were bowled out for 329 on the opening day.

A 126-run partnership between Matt Renshaw and Cameron Green steadied the innings before Inglis and Carey added an unbeaten 145 runs for the fifth wicket to put the visitors in a strong position.South Africa vs Australia 3rd Test: Day 2 from Cape Town Inglis, who came into the side after Steve Smith was ruled out through injury, remained unbeaten on 85 off 111 balls. Carey provided solid support, reaching 51 not out as Australia finished the day with six wickets in hand and an opportunity to build a substantial lead on Day 3.The Newlands surface offered better batting conditions on the second day, leaving South Africa's bowlers with few opportunities to make regular inroads.

Australia made the most of the conditions, with contributions coming from almost everyone in the top order. Renshaw and Travis Head gave Australia a brisk start, putting together 58 runs for the opening wicket.

Head made 41 before Simon Harmer struck with his first ball of the match, with the batter chopping the delivery onto his stumps while playing off the back foot.Harmer then dismissed Marnus Labuschagne for a duck, adding to the pressure on the Australian No. 3 after a prolonged lean run with the bat.

Labuschagne edged a delivery to Aiden Markram at slip, leaving Australia at a precarious point in the innings.Renshaw and Green responded with a crucial stand of 126 runs for the third wicket. Renshaw scored 74, while Green contributed 65, helping Australia recover and take control of the contest.

Their partnership ended when Marco Jansen removed both batters in quick succession. Renshaw was caught behind by Ryan Rickelton, while Green edged one to Harmer at slip.South Africa had an opportunity to put Australia under pressure, but Inglis and Carey ensured there was no late collapse.

Their unbroken stand took Australia past the hosts' first-innings total, leaving the visitors one run ahead at the close.Australia's batting has faced scrutiny in recent months, and the performances of Green and Renshaw will be encouraging for a side in transition. Inglis, meanwhile, made a timely statement with a composed innings after earning his place in the side as Smith's replacement.The series is level at 1-1, with Australia having won the first Test by 214 runs in Durban before South Africa responded with an innings-and-31-run victory in Gqeberha.

The deciding Test carries added significance, with the winner set to claim the No. 1 position in the Test rankings, currently held by Australia.- Ends