South Africa Secures Test Series Victory Over Australia, Reclaims Top Ranking

South Africa claimed a 2-1 series victory over Australia after a decisive 176-run win in the third Test at Newlands. The win elevates the Proteas to the top of the ICC Test rankings, a position they last held in 2016.

The hosts successfully defended a target of 288, bowling Australia out for 111 on the final day. Kagiso Rabada led the early attack, taking three wickets and reaching a milestone of 350 career Test wickets.

Spinner Simon Harmer secured the victory by taking six wickets, the best performance by a South African spinner against Australia since 1952. Despite resistance from the Australian tail, including a 33-run effort from Nathan Lyon, the visitors were unable to recover from the early collapse.