Fri Dec 06 09:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Lucky Break Fuels Rickelton’s Maiden Test Century, Propelling South Africa’s Century-Making Spree
**Gqeberha, South Africa** – Ryan Rickelton’s first Test century was nearly undone by a controversial LBW decision, but a last-minute reprieve via Ultra Edge review ultimately secured his place in South Africa’s remarkable run of century-makers this year.
Rickelton, on 98, was initially given out LBW by umpire Joel Wilson. Despite initial uncertainty, he reviewed the decision, revealing a faint edge that overturned the umpire’s call. Remarkably, Rickelton admitted he didn’t believe he’d hit the ball. Two balls later, he drove Vishwa Fernando for the two runs needed to reach his milestone.
His century makes him the eighth South African player to reach triple figures in a Test match this year, a staggering feat considering they’ve only played nine Tests in 2024. This compares favorably to West Indies (two centuries in nine Tests), Bangladesh (six centuries in ten Tests), and New Zealand (five centuries in ten Tests). Sri Lanka, South Africa’s opponents in this match, have managed a dozen centuries in their ten Tests this year.
Rickelton’s inclusion in the team was due to Wiaan Mulder’s injury. He jokingly claimed to be “tougher” than his injured teammate and schoolmate, despite requiring a finger brace after being struck by a delivery himself. Batting at number three, a position he’s excelled at domestically, Rickelton played a patient innings lasting over six hours and facing 250 balls. He shared a crucial 133-run partnership with Temba Bavuma, who provided valuable support as Rickelton navigated the slow-scoring St George’s Park ground.
Despite Rickelton’s heroics, Sri Lanka fought back strongly in the third session, taking three wickets for 90 runs to leave South Africa at 269/7 at the close of play. The match remains keenly contested. Rickelton’s century, however, provides a significant boost to South Africa’s confidence and further highlights their exceptional batting form in 2024.
First Piper 