Australia defeated world champions South Africa 42-38 in an extraordinary one-off Test in Perth on Sunday, surviving a late comeback after finishing the match with only 11 players.

The Wallabies appeared to be heading for a comfortable victory after opening a 42-17 lead through Max Jorgensen’s 64th-minute try.

However, the match descended into chaos during the final 11 minutes, with four Australian players sent to the sin bin as South Africa mounted a late fightback.

Harry Wilson was the first to be yellow-carded in the 69th minute following a high tackle after a video review. Two minutes later, Ryan Lonergan was sent to the sin bin for diving into the back of a ruck, with South Africa awarded a penalty try.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was subsequently dismissed after being ruled offside following a review of a Springboks try, before Hunter Paisami was also shown a yellow card for a high tackle.

At one stage, Australia were reduced to 11 players with South Africa pressing for a remarkable comeback.

The Springboks scored three late tries, including a final-minute effort from replacement prop Ox Nche, reducing the deficit to four points.

South Africa had an opportunity to launch one final attack but Australia held firm to secure the victory.

Australia had taken control after South Africa initially led 10-3 through Johan Grobbelaar’s converted try and a Handre Pollard penalty.

Len Ikitau scored twice in quick succession before Edwill van der Merwe responded for South Africa. Ben Donaldson then crossed before half-time to give Australia a 24-17 lead.

Wilson added another try after the break before Jorgensen’s 60-metre run put Australia 42-17 ahead.

The result extended Australia head coach Les Kiss’ unbeaten record to five Tests since taking charge.

South Africa captain Andre Esterhuizen said his side had been punished for errors and poor discipline, particularly during the first half.

The match was played before a record crowd of 54,678 at Optus Stadium, with Australia claiming their second victory over South Africa in their last three meetings.