Wiaan Mulder Shines with Century as South Africa Sets Challenging Target Against Australia

In a thrilling encounter at Newlands, Wiaan Mulder's century propelled South Africa to a commanding position against Australia in the third Test. After a shaky start, Mulder and Ryan Rickelton's partnership set a challenging target for the visitors. With all results still possible on the final day, the match promises an exciting finish. Discover the highlights of this gripping Test match and what lies ahead for both teams.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 30, 2026, 23:41 IST

Mulder's Remarkable Performance

Cape Town [South Africa], October 30: In a remarkable display of skill, South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder celebrated his fourth Test century while facing Australia in the third Test of their series.

Mulder's innings of 115 runs off 221 balls, featuring 10 boundaries and four sixes, was pivotal in establishing a solid 287-run lead for the Proteas, setting Australia a challenging target of 288 runs on the final day of the Newlands Test.

After a shaky start at 181/5, Mulder and Ryan Rickelton formed a crucial partnership, adding 154 runs for the sixth wicket, which provided the World Test Champions with a defendable target, bolstered by their formidable bowling attack.

Impressive Statistics

This century marks Mulder's fourth in his career, contributing to an impressive conversion rate of 80% among Test batters with four or more centuries. Across 27 Tests, he has accumulated 1,440 runs in 45 innings, averaging 36.00, with a top score of 367*.

In the current year, Mulder has scored 187 runs in three Tests, averaging 37.40, with his highest score being 115.

Rickelton, not far behind, achieved his third Test century, which constitutes 75% of his four fifty-plus scores. In 18 Tests, he has amassed 1,073 runs at an average of 37.00, including three centuries and a best score of 259.

South Africa's Second Innings

In their second innings, South Africa was bowled out for 387, recovering from a challenging position after conceding a 100-run lead in the first innings. Rickelton scored 101 runs off 219 balls, while Mulder's 115 off 221 balls helped solidify their position, as reported by Cricinfo.

Starting Day 4 at 140/4, South Africa aimed to extend their lead. Matthew Breetzke supported Rickelton but was dismissed for 43 after a top-edged pull shot off Pat Cummins.

Rickelton looked in control, particularly on the off side, until a mix-up with Mulder led to his unfortunate run-out, with Josh Inglis executing a sharp stop and Marnus Labuschagne completing the dismissal.

Final Day Anticipation

Marco Jansen fell without scoring after being dismissed by a short ball from Mitchell Starc, leading to a lower-order collapse. However, Mulder remained steadfast, reaching his half-century after 138 balls and later securing his fourth Test century with a boundary off Nathan Lyon.

He also added 36 runs with Kagiso Rabada for the last wicket, pushing South Africa's lead close to 300. Mulder was eventually dismissed by Cummins just before the end of the day's play.

Starc emerged as Australia's leading bowler in this innings, taking 3/65, while Lyon claimed two wickets. Australia, having scored 429 in their first innings against South Africa's 329, now requires 288 runs to win the third Test and the series. Meanwhile, South Africa needs 10 wickets on the final day to secure victory.

With a turning pitch at Newlands and Simon Harmer expected to play a crucial role, the final day promises an exciting conclusion, with all outcomes still possible.