South Africa batting for a draw after Clarke's 259
Clarke started the day aggressively and reached 259 before deciding to declare.
Michael Clarke posted the highest test score at the Gabba and then declared with a 115-run first-innings lead Tuesday in the slim hope of forcing a result on the last day of the series-opening match against top-ranked South Africa.
Clarke started the day aggressively and reached 259 before deciding to declare with Australia at 565-5 an hour before lunch.
The gamble had immediate dividends, with fast bowler James Pattinson removing Alviro Petersen (5) in the second over.
Graeme Smith (23) and Hashim Amla (38) survived to lunch but both fell in a torrid middle session as Jacques Kallis (40 not out) guided South Africa to 114-3 at tea. With only one session remaining, the test is likely to end in a draw.
