{
  "id": 13643438,
  "title": "Wiaan Mulder's willingness to do the hard yards makes him priceless to the Proteas",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/wiaan-mulders-willingness-to-do-the-hard-yards-makes-him-priceless-to",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-11T04:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas/2026-10-11-wiaan-mulders-willingness-to-do-the-hard-yards-makes-him-priceless-to-the-proteas/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Wiaan Mulder's dedication to his role makes him an invaluable asset to the South African cricket team. The 28-year-old utility cricketer can comfortably fit into any position and consistently perform under pressure. This was evident at Kingsmead, where he took 4/68, keeping the Proteas in the game despite Australia's eventual score of 390. Mulder only found out on the morning of the match that he would lead the attack in Rabada's absence, but he embraced the challenge, saying, \"I didn't know until the morning of the game. I think it suits my skill set, as long as the ball is moving.\" He showcased his striking abilities with a crucial wicket of Mitchell Starc, demonstrating the control and seam movement that have become his trademarks. Although he missed out on a five-wicket haul, Mulder remained positive about South Africa's performance, acknowledging Australia's strong show. He also expressed confidence in the pitch for further run-scoring opportunities in the latter stages of the game, emphasizing the team's resolve to execute their plans and contribute to a competitive Test match.",
  "summary": "South Africa's all-rounder Wiaan Mulder embraced yet another unfamiliar role and delivered with the ball, even as Australia's lower-order resistance wrestled momentum away from the hosts.",
  "key_points": [
    "Wiaan Mulder's versatility makes him invaluable to Proteas.",
    "Took 4/68 at Kingsmead, keeping SA in the game.",
    "Embraced leading attack in Rabada's absence, praised pitch."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Wiaan Mulder's adaptability and ability to perform under pressure make him a vital component of the Proteas team, particularly in times of challenge and change.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}