South Africa sets Australia 288 target

South Africa's Fightback

South Africa's Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder struck centuries as the hosts were bowled out for 387 to close day four of the decisive third Test against Australia. This set the touring side a victory target of 288 on the final day. Australia toiled, taking a single wicket in the opening two sessions before a burst after tea, but it was still very much the home side's day and sets up an intriguing tussle on Saturday.

Centuries from Rickelton and Mulder

Mulder top-scored with 115, his fourth Test century, while Rickelton amassed 101 as the pair ensured Australia will need to complete a challenging run chase. According to Rickelton, "It was about trying to win the small moments. We knew we were effectively 40 for four this morning and that Australia would come hard at us." The pair put on 154 for the sixth wicket, taking few risks and accumulating runs.

Pitch Conditions

The pitch is starting to show signs of wear, with Australia batter Josh Inglis saying on Thursday that a chase of over 200 would be a difficult one batting last. They will need considerably more than that at more than three runs an over against a South African bowling attack that has had its feet up for more than a day and a half.

Series Background

The series is level at 1-1 after Australia won the first Test by 214 runs in Durban and South Africa responded with a victory by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha. The winners of the match will occupy the No 1 spot in the Test world rankings, which is currently held by Australia.

Run Chase

Australia will need to complete the second-highest successful run chase in 137 years of Test cricket at Newlands to win the match.

Team	Score	Target
South Africa	387	-
Australia	-	288

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the target for Australia to win the match?

Australia needs to score 288 runs to win the match.

Who scored centuries for South Africa?

Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder scored centuries for South Africa.

What is the current state of the series?

The series is level at 1-1, with the winners of the match set to occupy the No 1 spot in the Test world rankings.

The final day of the third Test between South Africa and Australia is set to be an intriguing one, with Australia needing to complete a challenging run chase to win the match. The pitch is showing signs of wear, and the South African bowling attack will be looking to make the most of this to restrict Australia's scoring. The winners of the match will occupy the No 1 spot in the Test world rankings, adding an extra layer of importance to the match. With the series level at 1-1, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the series.