South Africa's misery Down Under continued as Australia claimed victory by an innings and 182 runs on Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test.
After yet another batting failure, Proteas managed to score only 189 in the first innings.
And once again their batters failed to counter the Kangaroos' attack in the second essay, managing only 204 runs in reply to Australia's mammoth 575-8.
With the win, the hosts have managed to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series and have almost confirmed a spot in the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at The Oval in June.
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Meanwhile, the Proteas still have a chance of reaching the final if they win the third and final Test, which starts on January 4 and whitewash West Indies at home in two-match Test series.
But even then, their WTC final chances will depend on the result of the India-Australia Test series.