But just as Strauss was set to reach his half century, he once again needlessly gifted his wicket away, top-edging an attempted reverse sweep off Hauritz to Johnson at short fine leg - the fifth time the off-spinner had claimed his wicket in the series.
With the batting lineup looking increasingly settled, thanks to the emergence of Faf du Plessis and the fine form of Alviro Petersen, the only thing missing now is a top-quality spinner.