South Africa slumped to 97-5 against Australia at the close of a rain-affected day two in the second Test at Gqeberha, as paceman Scott Boland claimed 4-31 to expose the hosts’ top-order batting frailties.
For much of Monday, rain threatened to deny meaningful play during the second Test between South Africa and Australia. When play did resume, Australia continued making inroads on a pitch with assistance for the pacers, leaving the balance of power firmly with the visitors as Temba Bavuma held firm on 41 not out alongside Mulder.
Boland Strikes After Rain Delays
It took the 37-year-old Boland only seven deliveries on day two to add to his wickets from day one. Relentless in his line and lengths, he found the perfect length to drag debutant Marques Ackerman forward before he nicked through to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Boland’s performance brought his career tally to 85 wickets in his 20-Test career.
Scott Boland does it again and gets 2 wickets in a row & nearly a hat-trick on Day 1 of 2nd test in South Africa! Build the man a statue!#SAvAUS #boland #cricket pic.twitter.com/Ds9PLRXd4Z
The selection changes proved costly for South Africa’s top order. Ackerman, opening the batting against the red ball for the first time in his career, fell after a defensive knock, while fellow new face Matthew Breetzke managed only four runs from 17 balls before being dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Ryan Rickelton was later removed by Boland after being worked over by Pat Cummins‘ bouncers.
Weather Outlook and Next Steps
Following a day dominated by inclement weather and a brief period of combat totaling just 12.2 overs on day two, the forecast is much better for tomorrow. The hosts will look to Bavuma and the remaining batsmen to push past 200 as the match enters day three.
