A WASHED out final day of the third Test in Hamilton will see South Africa jump ahead of Australia in the International Cricket Council’s Test rankings, earning the Proteas a bonus $300 000 windfall.
The tourists were set to resume at 5-80 on the fifth morning, still trailing New Zealand by 95 runs as the Black Caps pushed for a victory that would have levelled the series.
But torrential and persistent rain at Seddon Park meant no play was possible and the Proteas escaped with the draw they needed to move ahead of Australia and into second place in the ICC rankings.
South Africa will earn a $500 000 bonus for being in second place by the April 1 cut-off date, while Australia’s drop to third means they will pick up just $200 000.
India, who strengthened their grip on top spot with a 2-1 series win over Australia, will earn $1M for finishing No.1.
Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis admitted his side were fortunate to escape the match with a draw.
“New Zealand outplayed us in this game,” said du Plessis, who led his side to a famous series win in Australia earlier in the summer.
“They can count themselves very unlucky. They outplayed us in every department.”
The draw is also a cruel blow to New Zealand, who will now drop from fifth to sixth spot, behind Pakistan.