Ryan Rickelton wants no middle ground in the series-deciding Test against Australia. After South Africa fought back brilliantly on Day 4 at Newlands, Australia now need 288 runs to win the third Test and claim the series. The three-match series is level at 1-1.

The stakes could hardly be higher. Along with the series victory, the winner will take the No. 1 position in the Test rankings, while valuable World Test Championship points are also on the line.

Rickelton and Mulder Lead South Africa’s Fightback

South Africa began the fourth day under significant pressure. Australia had posted 429 in the first innings after the hosts made 329, giving the visitors a 100-run lead.

The Proteas were struggling again in their second innings, slipping to 181 for five with only an 81-run lead. That was when Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder turned the match around.

The pair produced a magnificent 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Rickelton scored 101, while Mulder made 115 as South Africa recovered to 387 all out and set Australia a target of 288.

Australia Face a Tough Final-Day Chase

Rickelton's 101 came from 219 balls and included 12 boundaries. Mulder's 115 off 221 deliveries featured 10 fours and four sixes. Their partnership lasted for almost 54 overs and frustrated Australia's bowling attack for long periods.

After Rickelton was run out, South Africa briefly lost momentum as several wickets fell quickly. Mulder, however, continued to fight with the lower order and helped push the total to 387 before he was dismissed in the final over of the day.

Australia now need 288 runs for victory. The highest successful fourth-innings chase at Newlands is Australia's 331 against South Africa in 2002. A successful chase of 288 would therefore become the second-highest in the venue's 137-year Test history.

With the series tied 1-1, Australia must complete a demanding chase to lift the series trophy, while South Africa will look to their bowling attack and a wearing pitch to finish the job.

For both teams, there is effectively no middle ground on the final day: win or lose.