The world champions reigned supreme in the three-match series against Australia, defending 287 at Newlands, Cape Town under two sessions on the final day. Simon Harmer was the protagonist with the ball, picking up six for 16 in the second innings, and a 10-wicket haul in the match.

Earlier in the match, Marques Ackerman smashed 95 off just 94 deliveries but the middle order failed to capitalise on it, managing 329, with Mitchell Starc claiming a six-wicket haul for the visitors. A Josh Inglis century and fifties from Alex Carey, Cameron Green, and Matt Renshaw handed Australia a crucial 100-run first innings lead.

The hosts then put up an incredible fightback, led by Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder, both of whom scored centuries from number six and seven, respectively. The pair’s 154-run stand helped South Africa set up a defendable target on the final day. Ackerman also scored a fifty in this innings to cap off a match-defining performance in only his second Test.

Updated WTC 2025-27 points table after South Africa’s victory over Australia at Cape Town

South Africa’s victory in Cape Town has shaken things up in the World Test Championship standings, with New Zealand being catapulted to the top. The Proteas moved up to second place with a points win percentage of 71.43 while Australia dropped down to third with 69.23 PCT.