Gibbs' stylish half-century kept South Africa in the hunt

South Africa's hopes of victory in the third Test against Australia faded after a rain-interrupted fourth day.

The Sydney weather caused a late start and early finish to the first session and play was eventually abandoned with South Africa on 94-3, a lead of 186.

Herschelle Gibbs was the man to fall in the afternoon session, run out for 67 after an embarrassing mix-up.

The sole breakthrough of the morning came when Glenn McGrath removed Graeme Smith to leave the tourists on 6-2.

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It was a controversial lbw decision, with McGrath's delivery appearing to strike Smith well above the knee roll.

But Smith's departure failed to unsettle Gibbs, who smashed nine boundaries for his 20th Test half century.

He had a reprieve on 34, when he edged McGrath to first slip and Shane Warne put down a one-handed chance.

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And on 46 he drove Brett Lee uppishly to cover, where the ball landed just short of Justin Langer.

He eventually departed when batting partner Jacques Kallis refused a quick single, leaving Gibbs stranded as Brad Hodge threw down the stumps.