Mulder-Rickelton centuries leave Australia with tough chase as Newlands Test heads for thrilling finish

South Africa built a strong position on the fourth day of the Newlands Test, thanks to centuries from Wiaan Mulder and Ryan Rickelton. Mulder made 115, his fourth Test hundred, while Rickelton scored 101. The pair added 154 runs for the sixth wicket, frustrating Australia for long periods. South Africa resumed on 140 for four and lost only Matthew Breetzke for 43 in the first two sessions. Breetzke was caught on the boundary while playing a pull shot, a familiar mode of dismissal for the hosts in this match. Australia took only one wicket in the first two sessions before finding some success after tea. Nathan Lyon bowled well for two wickets at a cost of 101 runs, with turn available from the pitch. The seamers also found variable bounce, but Australia could not make consistent breakthroughs. Mulder was the last man out, caught on the boundary while trying to increase the scoring rate. Australia now face a tough chase. They will need to score at more than three runs per over against a rested South African attack. If successful, it would be the second-highest successful run chase in 137 years of Test cricket at Newlands. Rickelton said the team focused on winning the small moments. He added that South Africa knew they were effectively 40 for four in the morning and expected Australia to attack. He said the plan was to spend time at the crease rather than worry about scoring quickly. The series is level at 1-1. Australia won the first Test in Durban by 214 runs, while South Africa won the second in Gqeberha by an innings and 31 runs. The winner of this match will take the number one spot in the Test rankings, currently held by Australia.