The key facts

  • Scott Boland: 4 wickets for 31 runs, South Africa 97/5 at stumps
  • Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 41; Ryan Rickelton (31) caught in a brilliant leap by Matt Renshaw
  • Play began six hours late after more than 60 mm of rain

Boland puts Australia in a commanding position

Scott Boland put Australia in a strong position after a lengthy rain delay on day two of the second Test against South Africa at St George's Park. Boland took four wickets while conceding 31 runs, and South Africa had lost five wickets by stumps, having scored 97 runs. Home captain Temba Bavuma held firm, scoring 41 runs and remaining not out.

Course of play

Boland made the side when Australia opted for an attack of pace bowlers only. After taking two wickets on the rain-soaked first day, he struck in the third over on Monday and again shortly before stumps. To the overnight 20 for two, only five runs were added before Boland took a wicket in the second over of the day: debutant Marques Ackerman (6) was caught behind by wicketkeeper Alex Carey off a ball that deviated off a hand and left the field. Matthew Breetzke, included in the side to bolster the batting alongside Ackerman, made only four and became Carey's third caught dismissal after a loose shot against Mitchell Starc.

Renshaw and the loss of Rickelton

South Africa seemed to be clawing their way back when Ryan Rickelton (31) added 52 runs for the fifth wicket with Bavuma, but Rickelton fell to a sensational one-handed catch at first slip by Matt Renshaw when Boland was brought back into the attack shortly before stumps.

Rain and series context

Play began six hours later than scheduled after more than 60 mm of rain fell overnight and in the morning. By the time the outfield had dried enough for play to begin, the sun was shining brightly, and conditions were expected to ease for the batters. However, Boland's tireless accuracy left South Africa — whom AFP describes as the reigning world Test champions — in a precarious position as they attempt to fight back in the three-match series after losing the first Test in Durban by 214 runs.

Hazlewood ill

Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood did not take the field due to illness, but, according to AFP, he was expected to be available the next day. Note the inconsistency contained in the report: the text refers to the match day as Monday, yet also mentions 'Tuesday' in connection with Hazlewood's absence.