Australia, leading the five-match series 2-1, batted first in the previous three matches, winning the first and third games in Perth and Canberra.

Allrounder Mitchell Marsh was released from the Australia squad Friday so he can play for Western Australia in the domestic Sheffield Shield.

Imran Tahir did not start for South Africa because of a knee injury sustained in the Canberra match, while Morne Morkel was also  left out of the staring XI.

The last match is scheduled for Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

--Sapa-AP--