Jacques Kallis inflicted further pain on a disappointing Australian pace attack by leading South Africa to a nigh-on unbeatable position in the first Test at the Gabba.

The world No.1 Proteas were eyeing huge first-innings total after Kallis (137 not out) brought up his 44th Test century and guided them to a commanding 3-357 at lunch on day three.

After Saturday’s play was completely abandoned due to rain, Australia only enjoyed one moment’s celebration in 38 overs with the second new-ball on Sunday morning in largely overcast conditions.

And that came with a huge slice of luck as classy South African No.3 Hashim Amla was adjudged leg before off Peter Siddle for 104.

Amla was hit high on the back pad by Siddle (1-93) but would have had umpire Asad Rauf’s decision overturned if he asked for a review by the third umpire.

Kallis strangely advised Amla against challenging the decision but it was one of very few mistakes the great allrounder made as he set the biggest score by a South African at the Gabba – breaking Eddie Barlow’s record of 114.

The only slither of hope he gave to the home side was a driven edge through a vacant third slip off James Pattinson when he was 117.

Like day one, Australia’s pacemen struggled to swing the ball and also build pressure on the batsmen through dot balls and a threatening line and length.

Kallis and Amla combined for a 165-run stand in almost four hours – their 11th century partnership together.

Test cricket’s leading runscorer in 2012 with 791 runs, Amla brought up his hundred – his third century in four Tests – 24 minutes into day with an upper-cut boundary off Pattinson.

Australia’s attack also gave AB de Villiers few troubles as he cruised to 32 not out at lunch in an unbeaten 73-stand with Kallis.