South Africa is poised for a tense finish in the third and final Test against Australia at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, heading into the final day with a 40-run lead and six wickets remaining.

The Proteas will need a strong batting performance this morning to extend their advantage and set Australia a challenging target as they look to secure a positive result in the series decider.

South African spinner Simon Harmer believes the deteriorating Newlands pitch could play a significant role in determining the outcome, with spin expected to become increasingly influential on the final day.

Harmer says the surface has changed considerably, particularly after
Australia’s Mitchell Starc disturbed the wicket with his footmarks.

“I definitely think that spin is probably going to come into it a lot more than it has in the first two and a half days. It was quite evident tonight how the ball was turning out of the footmarks. I think spin has a massive role to play in the rest of the Test,” said Harmer.

However, the experienced spinner insists South Africa cannot afford to look too far ahead, stressing that the first hour of play will be crucial in determining how competitive a target they can set.

“The most important part of this game for us is the first hour tomorrow morning. We can’t get too caught up in what we want and what would be nice and what is defendable, because whatever that looks like is not achievable if that first hour doesn’t go well,” he added.

Harmer also came to the defence of his teammates following questions about some of the dismissals in South Africa’s innings, highlighting the pressures and challenges that come with batting at the Test level.

He believes players are often their own harshest critics and understand when they have failed to make the most of an opportunity.

“Pressure is a funny thing. It’s easy to sit on the balcony or in the stands and pass judgement on somebody’s innings or how they get out. But there’s a lot going through your head when you’re waiting to face a bowler, and sometimes you make the incorrect decision at the wrong moment,” Harmer explained.

Speaking about the challenge of batting against Australia’s formidable bowling attack, Harmer says negotiating the opening deliveries at the crease is particularly important.

He believes patience, reading the conditions and trusting the process will be key for the Proteas as they attempt to build a substantial lead.

With the Newlands surface showing signs of turn and uneven wear, Harmer and the South African bowling attack could have an important role to play when Australia eventually come out to bat.

The stage is set for a gripping final day in Cape Town, with South Africa looking to make their advantage count against a formidable Australian side.

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