Rickelton and Mulder centuries keep South Africa in the contest as Australia face a challenging 288-run target on the final day.
By Marco Jacobs | Kairos Sport | 30 October 2026
The series has lived up to its billing. The world’s top two Test teams have produced a contest of exceptional quality, and fittingly, the destination of the series could be decided on the final day at Newlands.
With Australia needing 288 runs to win the third Test and South Africa requiring 10 wickets, all three results remain possible heading into day five.
After four days of absorbing cricket, there is little separating the two sides in what has been a fiercely contested series decider.
South Africa were bowled out for 387 in their second innings, setting Australia a target of 288 after starting day four on 140/4 with a lead of just 40 runs.
The Proteas deserve credit for the manner in which they approached the day. They lost just one wicket in the opening session before managing to frustrate the Australian attack for much of the afternoon.
Centuries from Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder proved instrumental in keeping South Africa in the contest. Rickelton, who by his own admission loves batting at Newlands, once again demonstrated his affinity for the venue, while Mulder’s contribution ensured the Proteas had the runs necessary to put Australia under pressure.
There was, however, a late loss of momentum as Australia struck repeatedly to bring the innings to a close. Despite that flurry of wickets, South Africa had done enough to establish a target of 288.
The Newlands pitch could have the final say
Much of the intrigue heading into the final day will centre on the condition of the Newlands surface.
The pitch has not deteriorated as significantly as might have been expected after four days of Test cricket. However, there are visible scuff marks outside the right-handed batters’ off-stump that could create additional challenges, particularly for the spinners.
This presents an interesting tactical consideration for South Africa, especially given that Australia have several left-handed batters in their line-up.
The positioning of the rough, the angle of attack and the ability to adjust lines and lengths against left- and right-handed batters could prove crucial. South Africa will need to be smart with their bowling changes and field placements if they are to make the most of the conditions.
Nathan Lyon has already demonstrated how much assistance can be extracted from the surface. Now Simon Harmer will have an opportunity to make those conditions work in South Africa’s favour.
The first session could set the tone
Australia will want to establish a solid foundation in their pursuit of 288, while South Africa will be looking for early breakthroughs to put the visitors under immediate pressure.
The opening session will be particularly important. If Australia negotiate it comfortably, the pressure could shift towards the Proteas. However, a couple of early wickets could open the door for South Africa to take control of the contest.
One thing that has become increasingly clear about this Proteas side under head coach Shukri Conrad is their willingness to pursue victory rather than settle for a safe result.
That attacking mindset will undoubtedly shape their approach on the final day. South Africa have the runs on the board and a spin-friendly surface that could offer opportunities. They will back themselves to take the 10 wickets required.
Australia, meanwhile, have the experience and batting depth to make the chase a difficult one for the home side.
After a series of such high quality, it is fitting that the outcome remains uncertain heading into the final day.
The two sides have traded blows throughout the series, and Newlands is now set to provide the final chapter.
288 runs for Australia. Ten wickets for South Africa. One final day to decide the series.
All three results remain possible. Test cricket does not get much better than this.