South Africa are set for an exciting final to the third and final Test against Australia at Newlands in Cape Town. The Proteas declared their second innings at 387, leaving Australia needing to score 288 runs to win the series-decider. It is currently 1-1 in the three-match series, so whoever wins will be crowned the series champions.

Ryan Rickelton has played a big role in putting South Africa in a commanding position. He scored an unbeaten 101 alongside Wiaan Mulder, who scored 115. This was Rickelton's third century of his 18th game for South Africa, giving them a good opportunity to get the series victory.

Ryan Rickelton Reflects on South Africa vs Australia Series Decider

Ryan Rickelton conceded there was a lot of uncertainty and neither team could afford to get complacent. With Australia chasing 288 runs and South Africa looking to take 10 wickets, the decider is balanced.

“I guess it boils down to win or lose because there isn't going to be a draw. If you said that it's going to go down to the third test and day five of the third test, there is going to be three results or two results, I wouldn't have believed that. It has been an incredible series,” Rickelton said (Hindustan Times).

Newlands Pitch Conditions Explained By Ryan Rickelton Ahead Of Day Five

As for the pitch conditions, Ryan Rickelton stated that the Newlands wicket had been a slow one throughout the entire match. The ball was also very soft, and it made it tricky for batters to score freely and find gaps in the field.

“It was certainly a very slow wicket. The ball was very soft and to go through the infield was very difficult. There may be three results tomorrow. I just think with the new ball, there are obviously scores to be had and wickets to be taken,” said the 30-year-old.

He also pointed out how difficult it would be for Australia to score at a consistent rate while the wicket continues to deteriorate.

“It has been a very slow wicket. If they want a crack at it, that may come into it. It will be a big ask to score threes. [run rate] consistently through the day. It is a slower wicket, and it has been deteriorating,” added Rickelton.

Australia will have to be disciplined at the crease if they are to overcome the challenge and win an amazing series. They will also be looking to make history after chasing 288 runs, which will be the second-highest successful run chase in Test cricket history at Newlands.

The highest successful fourth-innings chase at the ground came back in 2002 when Australia chased 334 runs against South Africa and won with six wickets in hand. The tourists will be hoping to get some inspiration from that performance as they try to clinch the series on the final day of the match.