Wiaan Mulder, South Africa’s emerging all-rounder, is eyeing a permanent place at the pivotal No. 3 spot in the Proteas’ Test batting lineup.
Following his noteworthy performance in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s, Mulder believes he is ready to fill the long-standing void in the top order.
In the historic final, Mulder contributed with scores of six and 27, and notably stitched together a crucial 61-run partnership with Aiden Markram, who went on to score a century.
Despite limited exposure at first drop—this was only his fourth time batting at No. 3 in Test cricket—Mulder thrived under pressure and embraced the responsibility.
Speaking to ICC Digital, he admitted that he enjoys batting early, citing the nervous energy of waiting on the sidelines as a reason for preferring to be out in the middle from the start. He also highlighted the need for unwavering focus in the role, a challenge he finds stimulating.
South Africa’s No. 3 spot has seen frequent changes, with several players including Ryan Rickelton, Tony de Zorzi, and Tristan Stubbs given chances during the Proteas’ road to the final.
However, Mulder’s versatility adds a new dimension. His inclusion at No. 3 allows South Africa to maintain a well-balanced team, accommodating three frontline seamers and spinner Keshav Maharaj.
Mulder can also serve as a handy fourth seamer, giving the team tactical flexibility across varying pitch conditions.
Looking ahead, Mulder is set to feature in the upcoming two-Test series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, where top-order batters like Markram, Rickelton, and Stubbs will be rested.
This scenario positions him perfectly to make a strong case for a long-term claim to the No. 3 spot. Mulder recognizes the contrast between a WTC Final and bilateral series but remains motivated.
He expressed his hunger to play and his desire to use the Zimbabwe series as a platform to score runs and further solidify his role.
As South Africa seeks stability in its Test batting order, Wiaan Mulder’s commitment, adaptability, and all-round ability could finally offer the answer to their long-standing No. 3 dilemma.