Scott Boland finished with 4 for 31 as South Africa slipped to 97 for 5 at stumps on a rain-hit second day of the second Test in Gqeberha. Temba Bavuma was unbeaten on 41, and Australia, already 1-0 up in the series, hold the upper hand.
Gqeberha, South Africa: Rain took most of the day. What was left belonged to Scott Boland. Heavy overnight rain and a wet outfield delayed the start well into the afternoon, and when play finally began, only about 30 overs were bowled. South Africa lost three wickets for 77 runs in that time and finished on 97 for 5 after 43 overs in the match.
Boland keeps up the pressure
South Africa resumed on 20 for 2, still reeling from Boland’s two wickets in two balls on the first day. The debutant Marques Ackerman fell for 6, caught behind by Alex Carey off Boland. Matthew Breetzke followed for 4, caught behind off Mitchell Starc, leaving South Africa at 40 for 4.
Ryan Rickelton gave the innings some life with 31 before Boland struck again, Matt Renshaw holding a one-handed catch at first slip. Boland finished with 4 for 31 and Starc with 1 for 27.
Bavuma holds firm
Temba Bavuma was the one batter to look settled. He reached 41 not out by the close, with Mulder on 2, and will resume on Tuesday with South Africa needing a partnership to stay in the contest. Josh Hazlewood was unwell and missed the day’s play.
What lies ahead
Australia lead the series 1-0 after their 214-run win in Durban, and the weather is forecast to improve over the remaining days. Day three begins at 9am local time. The opening day had been cut to a dozen overs, so lost time can be made up if the sun holds.
At stumps, day two: South Africa 97 for 5 after 43 overs (Bavuma 41*, Mulder 2*; Boland 4/31, Starc 1/27), second Test, St George’s Park, Gqeberha, Monday, 19 October 2026
Series: Australia lead 1-0 after winning the first Test in Durban by 214 runs
