Bavuma run out of David Warner - 'One of the best pieces of fielding'

David Warner is run out by Temba Bavuma. Photo / AP

Australia were in desperate need of a David Warner century at Perth yesterday.

But the opener's innings was brought to an end on 35 by a brilliant piece of fielding from Temba Bavuma.

In what seemed like a regulation single, Bavuma pounced on the ball at short cover and caught Warner by surprise with a diving throw.

Standing at only 1.61m tall, the pint-sized South African was horizontal and a few inches off the ground when he picked up the ball and threw down the wickets from close range.

Bavuma's athleticism and speed made everyone gasp in astonishment. Warner wasn't moving as quick as he could have been in the final two metres to the crease and paid for it dearly.

Shane Warne was in high praise of the young Protea, calling it one of the greatest run-outs in history.

"That's as good a piece of cricket as you will ever seen," he said.

It was a defining moment that has all but assured South Africa will win. Australia will begin the final day needing an unlikely 370 runs for victory with six wickets remaining.

In a video posted by Cricket Australia, for test opener Chris Rogers said that it was one of the best pieces of fielding he'd ever seen.

"The way he did it, he moved so quickly, picked up the ball and threw in one motion. His feet were above his head when he let the ball go," Rogers said.

"That's only something Jonty Rhodes or Ricky Ponting could actually pull off."

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- news.com.au./AP