The Proteas have set up a thrilling final day at Newlands, thanks to a 154-run partnership between Wiaan Mulder and Ryan Rickelton. The pair's partnership has transformed a fragile position into one of opportunity, with the Proteas delivering a stirring act of resistance on a tension-filled fourth day. Mulder brought up his fourth Test century, sending the Newlands faithful into raptures, as the shadows stretched across Table Mountain.
The Proteas resumed on 140/4, effectively 40/4, and were bowled out for 387 to set Australia 288 runs for victory on the 15th and final day of the compelling series. Mulder's 115 was a valuable contribution, not only for its runs but also for its timing, as the Proteas' series hopes were on the line. He managed to absorb the examination before gradually turning it back upon the Australian bowlers.
Rickelton, who scored 101, extended his love affair with Newlands, having scored 259 the last time the Proteas played at the foot of Table Mountain. His third century was arguably his most poignant Test innings. The pair's partnership for the sixth wicket has potentially shifted the entire momentum of the series. However, Australia struck back with two run-outs, including Rickelton's, and the dismissal of Marco Jansen for a duck in quick succession.
The visitors will take solace from the fact that wickets are still hard to come by on this placid Newlands surface. Rickelton and Matthew Breetzke set the tone in the morning session before Mulder and Rickelton showed the template for success as the day progressed. The Australian bowlers had a demanding day, but they managed to keep themselves within touching distance.
Australia will still need to complete the second-highest fourth-innings chase in Newlands' history, which is only bettered by their own champion 2002 side that hunted down 331 with six wickets still in the bank here 24 years ago. The visitors were bowled out for 429 in their first innings, and the Proteas' second innings was marked by a notable performance from Mulder.
Proteas bowling coach Piet Botha said the bowlers had anticipated a demanding day but acknowledged they would need to improve if they were to force their way back into the contest. The Proteas' chances of winning the series decider and claiming the ICC World No. 1 ranking at Newlands are still alive, but they will need a significant effort to achieve it.
Simon Harmer believes South Africa are going to need "something spectacular" to win the series decider. The final day's play will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series. The Proteas will need to bowl out Australia to restrict them to a low score and give themselves a chance of winning.
Key points
- The Proteas' partnership between Wiaan Mulder and Ryan Rickelton has set up a thrilling final day at Newlands.
- Australia still needs to complete the second-highest fourth-innings chase in Newlands' history to win the match.
- The Proteas' series hopes were on the line, and Wiaan Mulder's century was a crucial contribution to their chances.
