Rickelton and Mulder Forge Partnership at Newlands

The duo shared a 154-run fifth-wicket stand during the third Test between South Africa and Australia.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Tennis

Rickelton and Mulder Forge Partnership at Newlands

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Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder combined for a 154-run partnership to stabilise South Africa's innings at Newlands during the third Test against Australia. Mulder anchored the effort with a century before a late collapse saw the side lose three lower-order wickets.

Why it matters

The partnership was crucial for South Africa in building a competitive total against Australia at the iconic Newlands ground. However, the subsequent loss of wickets highlights the vulnerability of the lower-order lineup under pressure.

Wiaan Mulder scored 115 runs in the innings, hitting notable sixes off Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon. The partnership concluded after 154 runs when Ryan Rickelton was dismissed via a run-out.

The players

Wiaan Mulder

A South African cricketer who dedicated his century to his father, Pieter, who passed away earlier in the year.

Ryan Rickelton

A South African batsman who contributed to a significant fifth-wicket partnership before being dismissed via a run-out.

Pat Cummins

The Australian captain and fast bowler who faced aggressive batting during the partnership at Newlands.

Nathan Lyon

An Australian spin bowler who was driven through the covers by Mulder to reach his century.

Josh Inglis

The Australian player responsible for the pivotal fielding effort that resulted in the run-out of Rickelton.

The details

After resuming on the fourth day at 140/4 with a 40-run lead, the pair navigated the Australian attack before a miscommunication led to Rickelton attempting a second run and being dismissed by Josh Inglis. South Africa struggled immediately afterwards, losing Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, and Gerald Coetzee for just 16 runs across 36 deliveries.

The pair batted together at Newlands on 30 October 2026.
Wiaan Mulder's father passed away in April 2026.

Season Trajectory

This performance follows a pattern set by the third Test match series structure where partnerships often dictate the result on the fourth day. A strong showing here maintains South Africa's competitiveness in the series, directly influencing the final standings.

The 154-run stand provides the necessary foundation for South Africa to potentially push for a series-defining victory. However, the subsequent loss of three wickets in 36 deliveries leaves the tail exposed for the remainder of the innings.

The takeaway

Mulder's century, dedicated to his late father, serves as an emotional highlight during a tightly contested series against a formidable opponent. His ability to hit boundaries against top-tier bowlers like Cummins and Lyon underlines his growing importance to the national side.