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Cape Town set for classic finale – what does history suggest could happen?

South Africa set up an epic final day of their decisive Test against Australia by batting throughout the fourth day. What does history suggest could happen?

By Matthew Henry · BBC Sport

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 5:03 PM

Key Things to Know

South Africa set Australia a 288-run target to win the third Test and claim the series in Cape Town.
Wiaan Mulder scored 115 and Ryan Rickelton made 101 to lead South Africa to 387 in their second innings.
Australia's target would represent the second-highest successful fourth-innings chase in 62 Tests played at Newlands.

The Story in 60 Seconds

South Africa set Australia a target of 288 runs to win the third Test in Cape Town after scoring 387 in their second innings on day four. Centuries from Ryan Rickelton, who scored 101, and Wiaan Mulder, who hit 115, rescued the hosts from an precarious overnight position. Australia previously posted 429 in their first innings after South Africa scored 329.

A successful pursuit by Australia would mark the second-highest fourth-innings chase in Newlands history, behind their 331-run victory in 2002. Off-spinner Simon Harmer, who took four wickets in the first innings, will be crucial as PitchViz recorded its most difficult batting conditions of the match late on day four.

Read the full article on BBC Sport

Cape Town set for classic finale – what does history suggest could happen?

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