Proteas and Australia set for final-day Test decider at Newlands
Australia need 288 runs with ten wickets in hand on the last day in Cape Town, with the series between South Africa and Australia level at 1-1.
The deciding Test between South Africa and Australia at Newlands in Cape Town goes into its fifth and final day on Saturday with the series level at 1-1, according to The Citizen.
Australia begin their second innings in the morning session, needing 288 runs to win. They have all 10 wickets in hand.
Rickelton and Mulder keep the Proteas in it
The Proteas were under pressure on day four on Friday. Middle-order batters Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder both scored centuries, which kept the hosts in contention.
Speaking after play on Friday, Rickelton said he would not have believed that the series would go to day five of the third Test with either side able to win. He described the contest as “a special series” in which both teams had edged ahead and then been pulled back. He said there had been mistakes as well as good play, and he hoped Saturday would be a good day for South Africa.
A result, or a grind for a draw
Rickelton expects a result, but he accepted that Australia could try to bat out the day for a draw if they struggle in the conditions. He pointed to the new ball, saying there are runs available, and wickets too.
He said the pitch had been quite slow, and that this could affect how Australia approach their chase if they decide to attack. On Friday the bounce was a bit two-paced, he said, and few balls stayed low. His view was that Saturday would be a grind.
Rickelton said it would be a big ask for Australia to score at about three runs an over for the whole day, particularly on a slower, lower and deteriorating pitch.
What to know for day five
- Play starts at 10.30am on Saturday.
- Australia need 288 runs to win and have all 10 wickets in hand.
- The series is level at 1-1, so this Test decides it.
- A South African win, an Australian win or a draw are all possible.
For supporters planning to follow the action, the opening session with the new ball is likely to be important, based on Rickelton’s comments.
This story is based on reporting by The Citizen.
