Newlands, Cape Town:Ryan Rickelton continued his impressive home record with a composed century against Australia on Day 4 of the third Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The left-handed batter scored 101 off 219 deliveries, helping South Africa strengthen their position with a substantial second-innings total.
Rickelton brought up his hundred from 218 balls, striking 12 fours during an innings built on patience, concentration and solid shot selection. He negotiated Australia's bowling attack through a crucial phase of the match before his innings came to an end through a run-out involving wicketkeeper Josh Inglis and Marnus Labuschagne.
The century was Rickelton's third in Test cricket, and all three have come on home soil. His previous hundreds were a 101 against Sri Lanka at Gqeberha in 2024 and a magnificent 259 against Pakistan at Newlands in 2025. His latest milestone further underlined his ability to produce substantial innings in familiar conditions.
Rickelton also maintained an impressive conversion record. His 75 per cent conversion rate is joint-best among South African batters with at least three Test centuries, alongside Wiaan Mulder.
Rickelton and Mulder strengthen South Africa's innings
Rickelton received valuable support from Mulder, who scored 70 off 164 balls, including seven fours and a six. Their contributions helped South Africa build a strong platform after Australia had taken a first-innings lead.
Marques Ackerman also played an important role with 62 off 80 deliveries, while Matthew Breetzke contributed 43 from 121 balls. The combined effort gave the hosts valuable runs and increased the pressure on Australia's bowling attack.
Australia found breakthroughs through Mitchell Starc, who claimed two wickets, while Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood also contributed to the bowling effort. Rickelton's run-out eventually ended his resistance after he had completed his century.
South Africa finish on 336/6
South Africa finished their second innings on 336/6 after 120 overs, scoring at a run rate of 2.80. Rickelton's 101 was the highest individual score, with Mulder's 70 and Ackerman's 62 providing further support.
Rickelton's third Test hundred was the defining contribution of the innings. Although he was run out after reaching the milestone, his patient knock helped South Africa build a strong position as the third Test moved towards its decisive stages.
With a substantial target to defend, South Africa will look to make the most of their advantage, while Australia face the challenge of responding under pressure.
