South Africa have delivered a memorable performance at Newlands, defeating Australia by 176 runs on Saturday, October 31, 2026, to clinch the three-match Test series 2-1.

The visitors were bowled out for just 111 on the fifth day of the deciding Test, ending their hopes of chasing down the 288 runs required for victory.

It was a remarkable finish to a fiercely contested series, with the Proteas producing a devastating bowling performance when the pressure was at its highest.

Kagiso Rabada set the tone with a sensational opening spell, taking two wickets in the first over of Australia's chase before removing another batter shortly afterwards.

Australia's top order struggled to survive the early assault.

Matt Renshaw was caught behind for a duck, Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed for four, and Travis Head departed after scoring 14. The early wickets left Australia in serious trouble before the visitors could build any meaningful momentum.

But Rabada was not the only South African bowler making life difficult for the Australians.

Off-spinner Simon Harmer produced a career-best performance of six wickets for just 16 runs in 21.1 overs, dismantling the remaining batting order and putting the finishing touches on South Africa's victory.

Australia were reduced to 42 for six, then reached lunch at 60 for seven. Their resistance continued into the afternoon, but the result was becoming increasingly difficult to escape.

Cameron Green scored 27, while Nathan Lyon remained unbeaten on 33. Captain Pat Cummins managed 11 before Harmer trapped him leg before wicket.

Josh Hazlewood was the final wicket to fall, bowled by Harmer as Australia finished on 111.

The victory completed a 2-1 series triumph for South Africa after three Tests in which both teams had their moments.

The Proteas' batting contributions were also crucial. Marques Ackerman scored 95 in the first innings, while Aiden Markram made 78. In the second innings, Wiaan Mulder struck 115 and Ryan Rickelton added 101 to help South Africa post 387.

Rabada also reached an important personal milestone, claiming his 350th Test wicket during his match-winning spell.

The result is significant beyond the series trophy. South Africa are set to move above Australia to the top of the ICC Test rankings, returning to the summit for the first time since January 2016.

It was a statement victory from a team that refused to surrender when the contest became difficult.

Proteas supporters will be celebrating this one. Was Simon Harmer the biggest hero of the victory, or did Rabada's opening spell decide everything? Share your verdict in the comments.

Source: https://x.com/eNCA/status/2116538522614042999?a=l7ya6zq4ZNwKh0qjNqI&s=19