Rickelton expects result as South Africa sets 288-run target
The final Test between South Africa and Australia is heading towards a decisive conclusion on the last day, with the series result, the top Test ranking, and important World Test Championship points all at stake.
South Africa wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton highlighted the high stakes ahead of the concluding day, stating, “No draw tomorrow.” His century, along with Wiaan Mulder’s, helped South Africa stage a notable fightback, setting Australia a target of 288 runs to win the third and final Test of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 at Newlands, Cape Town.
After resuming at 140 for four on the fourth morning under pressure, South Africa were eventually bowled out for 387 in 134.4 overs.
“It’s win or lose, I guess. No draw tomorrow. If you had to say that it’s going down to the third Test, day five, with all three results on the cards or two results on the cards, yeah, I wouldn’t have believed it. It’s been a special series,” Rickelton said, according to Cricinfo.
The South African innings was bolstered by a 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket between Rickelton, who scored 101 from 219 balls, and Mulder, who made 115 from 221 deliveries. This is South Africa’s second-highest sixth-wicket partnership against Australia in Test cricket.
Rickelton also commented on the challenges Australia will face with the new ball, noting the slow and deteriorating pitch. He said, “I just think with that new ball, there’s obviously runs available, and there’s obviously wickets too. It has been quite slow. If Australia obviously fancy having a go at it, it might just factor into it. For them to bat at effectively threes the whole day will be a big ask, especially on a slower, lower deteriorating wicket.”
Earlier in the match, South Africa posted 329 in their first innings, while Australia responded with 429 to take a 100-run lead.
The three-match series is currently tied at 1-1, leaving both teams in contention as they enter the final stages of the deciding Test.