South Africa stand just three wickets away from a memorable series victory after a sensational bowling display by Kagiso Rabada and Simon Harmer completely dismantled Australia’s batting order on the final morning of the decisive third Test at Newlands. Resuming with high hopes of chasing down a target of 288 runs, the visitors suffered a catastrophic collapse, plunging to 60 for 7 by the lunch interval and leaving their lower order with an impossible rescue mission.
Match Situation and Collapse
Kagiso Rabada set the tone immediately in a blistering opening spell that yielded three crucial wickets for just 14 runs off five overs. The fast bowler claimed his landmark 350th Test wicket in the process, getting rid of dangerous left-hander Travis Head caught at gully. Rabada struck with the third ball of the morning by removing Matt Renshaw for a golden duck before trapping Marnus Labuschagne lbw shortly after.
- Key match facts from the morning session:
- Australia slumped to 60 for 7 by lunch, needing a further 228 runs to win the series-deciding Test.
- Kagiso Rabada delivered a devastating spell of 3 for 14, claiming his 350th career Test wicket.
- Offspinner Simon Harmer wreaked havoc on the turning pitch with figures of 3 for 5 from eight overs.
- Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 25 at the break as the last recognized specialist batter.
Spin Twins Turn the Screw
Once the pace spearhead had done early damage, offspinner Simon Harmer capitalized brilliantly on a wearing surface that offered substantial turn and variable bounce. Harmer applied relentless pressure from his end, picking up three quick wickets to leave the Australian batting lineup in absolute tatters before the interval. He accounted for Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, and Mitchell Starc in a clinical spell.
With only all-rounder Cameron Green offering any genuine resistance at the crease on 25 not out, South Africa are firmly in the driver’s seat to seal the series. Australia face an uphill battle to avoid a heavy defeat as the match enters its final session.
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