CAPE TOWN : Australia face a difficult task chasing 288 runs against South Africa on a deteriorating Newlands pitch on Saturday, with the hosts banking on their pace attack and spinner Simon Harmer to secure a series victory.
South African wicketkeeper-batsman Ryan Rickelton struck his third Test century on Friday, while Wiaan Mulder contributed 115 to set up an intriguing final day of the three-match series, which is level at 1-1.
Rickelton warned that scoring would become increasingly difficult on the slow surface, particularly against Harmer, who could exploit the rough patches outside off stump for right-handed batters.
“For the right-handers, though, that ball turning back in can be vicious,” Rickelton told reporters after the fourth day’s play.
He said the ageing ball had made scoring difficult, while the uneven bounce and deteriorating conditions could further complicate Australia’s chase.
“With the new ball, there are runs available, but there are wickets available as well,” he added.
Rickelton described the series as fiercely contested, with momentum shifting between the two sides throughout the three matches.
Australia won the opening Test in Durban before South Africa levelled the series in Gqeberha.
“I think it’s going to be a grind. For Australia to score at three runs an over throughout the day would be a big ask on a slower, lower and deteriorating wicket,” Rickelton said.
