Marsh, Smith hit hundreds; Australia 374-7

CENTURION: Australia’s Shaun Marsh hit a career-best 148 and Steve Smith also made a century to propel the tourists to 374-7 at lunch on the second day of the first test in South Africa.

They shared a 233-run partnership, adding 34 to their overnight stand before South Africa took three wickets in the day’s morning session at SuperSport Park to earn a little respite.

Smith reached his fourth century in seven tests before edging behind off Ryan McLaren on 100.

Spinner Robin Peterson got Brad Haddin for a duck and Vernon Philander removed Marsh, who recorded his best test score and second century after 141 on debut in 2011.

Mitchell Johnson was 28 not out with five fours as Australia approached 400 after being put in to bat. (AP)