CAPE TOWN: Josh Inglis and Alex Carey added an unbeaten 145 for the fifth wicket as Australia took a first innings lead on the second day of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands on Wednesday.

Australia were 330 for four at the close, one run ahead of South Africa's first innings total of 329 with six wickets remaining.

Matt Renshaw and Cameron Green contributed 126 for the third wicket before Inglis and Carey put Australia into a strong position to push for victory in the series-deciding match.

Australia's progress on a good batting pitch was twice interrupted by double strikes by the South African bowlers but it was their only success as they toiled on an unresponsive pitch on a warm, cloudless day.