South Africa Revives Series Hopes with Century-Powered Comeback at Newlands

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — Centuries by Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder lifted South Africa back into series contention against Australia on a day of batting domination in the deciding Newlands cricket test on Friday. The host’s second‑innings total of 387, built on a 287‑run lead, set Australia a daunting target of 288 to win the three‑test series, which stands level at 1‑1.

Day Four Batting Dominance Fuels South African Resurgence

South Africa began day four trailing only 40 runs and with four wickets in hand. A resilient fightback, spearheaded by wicketkeeper Rickelton’s 101 off 219 balls and all‑rounder Mulder’s 115 off 221 balls, produced a lead of 287 and left Australia with a steep chase on the final day.

Rickelton and Mulder Forge Crucial Partnership

The two batters shared a 54‑over stand worth 154 runs for the sixth wicket, frustrating Australia into deploying eight different bowlers. Rickelton reached his third Test hundred off 219 deliveries, hitting 12 boundaries, while Mulder’s 10 fours and four sixes underscored his aggressive approach. Their partnership, which included a 100‑run stand off 193 balls, was broken only when Mulder ran out Rickelton in the final over, ending South Africa’s innings at 387.

Australia’s Chase Challenge and Spin Threat

Australia must negotiate a 288‑run target on a pitch that is increasingly turning, giving South Africa a clear advantage. Off‑spinner Simon Harmer, who has been rested and is in peak form, is expected to exploit the surface. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc contributed 3‑65 and took his ninth wicket of the match, but the onus will be on the middle order to accelerate.

Simon Harmer’s Rest and Impact

Harmer’s break from the first two Tests has allowed him to return fresh, and his control of the turning track could be decisive. His spell, combined with the experience of spin‑bowling all‑rounders, may restrict the run rate and force errors in the chase.

Series Stakes and Historical Context

The series is level 1‑1, making the Newlands encounter pivotal. Australia holds the record for the highest successful fourth‑innings chase at this venue, 331 in 2002, but South Africa’s recent dominance at home and the spin‑friendly conditions tilt the balance. A victory would give the Proteas a 2‑1 series lead, while a loss would level the contest and keep the final Test as a potential decider.

Record Chase at Newlands and South African Advantage

Australia’s 2002 chase of 331 remains the benchmark for fourth‑innings success at Newlands. Since then, the pitch has become more variable, offering assistance to spin and making run‑chases more challenging. South Africa’s ability to post a substantial total and then leverage a turning surface gives them a strategic edge that could prove decisive on the final day.

With the series tied and a historic venue at stake, the upcoming day promises a tense battle of nerves, skill, and strategy as Australia attempts to chase down a target that may prove beyond their reach.

See AP’s full cricket coverage here

Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

News, Sports, Cricket, Test Match, Cape Town, South Africa, Australia, Newlands