South Africa produced a great comeback to defeat Australia by 176 runs in the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town, on October 31. The victory seals a 2-1 series win for the Proteas and takes them to the top of the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings.

The hosts produce a good bowling performance on the fifth day, dismissing Australia for 111 while defending a target of 288. Off-spinner Simon Harmer leads the attack with a career-best six wickets for 16 runs, while fast bowler Kagiso Rabada claims three wickets for 39 runs.

Australia begin the final day needing 288 runs for victory, but Rabada strikes early and puts the visitors under immediate pressure. His opening spell removes main batters and brings him to the milestone of 350 Test wickets. He becomes the fastest bowler to reach the landmark by balls bowled, achieving it in 13,808 balls.

Harmer then takes control of the innings, exploiting the conditions to dismantle Australia’s middle and lower order. His match figures of 10 wickets for 120 runs mark his first 10-wicket haul in Test cricket.

The result completes a dramatic turnaround for South Africa, who lose the opening Test in Durban by 214 runs. The Proteas respond with an innings-and-31-run victory in Gqeberha before securing the series in Cape Town.

South Africa also overcame a challenging stage in the deciding Test. After conceding a 100-run first-innings lead, the hosts recovered through strong batting performances from Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder. Both players scored centuries in the second innings and helped set Australia a challenging target.

The series victory carries major significance in the world rankings. South Africa move to first place with a rating of 124, while Australia drop to second with 122 points. The Proteas earn the top position for the first time since January 2016.

The win improves South Africa’s position as reigning World Test Championship winners and highlights their resilience against a formidable Australian side. Their comeback series triumph also gives the team renewed momentum in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.

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