South Africa moved within touching distance of a memorable Test series triumph after Kagiso Rabada and Simon Harmer dismantled Australia’s batting order on the final morning of the third Test at Newlands, Cape Town.
Chasing a challenging target of 288, Australia suffered a dramatic collapse, reaching just 60 for 7 at lunch. The hosts seized complete control through outstanding pace and spin bowling, leaving the visitors facing an almost impossible task.
Rabada delivered a sensational opening burst, removing Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne in the first over. Renshaw departed without scoring, while Labuschagne managed only a boundary before falling lbw. The Australian batter challenged the decision, but the review confirmed the umpire’s original verdict.
The South African fast bowler continued his impressive spell by dismissing Travis Head, who had struck three boundaries before edging a delivery to gully. That dismissal marked Rabada’s 350th Test wicket, achieved in fewer deliveries than any other bowler in history.
His opening figures of 3 for 14 from five overs highlighted his remarkable influence on the contest.
Harmer then exploited the deteriorating pitch conditions to increase Australia’s difficulties. The spinner removed Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly and Mitchell Starc, finishing the morning session with exceptional figures of 3 for 5 from eight overs.
Australia’s troubles deepened when Josh Inglis was run out for four following confusion between the wickets.
Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 25 at the interval, offering the visitors their only significant resistance. He also survived a difficult return catch that Harmer failed to hold when Green was on 10.
With Australia seven wickets down and still requiring 228 runs, South Africa stood firmly in control, closing in on a 2-1 series victory.
The exceptional partnership between Rabada and Harmer had transformed the deciding Test into a commanding display of South African bowling excellence.
