Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder delivered stellar performances, scoring centuries as South Africa posted a total of 387 to close day four of the decisive third Test against Australia. This result sets the visitors a challenging target of 288 runs on the final day.

Australia faced a tough day, managing to take just one wicket in the first two sessions before a late burst post-tea. Despite the struggles, it was clearly the home side's day, ramping up excitement for Saturday's showdown.

• Wiaan Mulder top-scored with 115, marking his fourth Test century.
• Ryan Rickelton contributed significantly with 101, forming a crucial partnership.
• The sixth-wicket stand between Mulder and Rickelton added 154 runs, showcasing patience and strategy.

Rickelton reflected on their approach:

It was about trying to win the small moments. We knew we were effectively 40 for four... We had our plans and needed to stick to them.

As the pitch showed signs of wear, Josh Inglis of Australia acknowledged that chasing over 200 runs would be challenging, especially against a rested South African bowling attack.

South Africa resumed at 140-4 and lost only Matthew Breetzke (43) during the two sessions. Mulder fell as the last man out while attempting to accelerate the scoring.

The series stands at 1-1 after Australia won the first Test by 214 runs in Durban, and South Africa bounced back with a victory by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha. Rickelton described the series as "special," highlighting the ebb and flow of both teams. The match winner will ascend to the No. 1 spot in the Test world rankings, currently held by Australia.