South Africa Crash To 40/4, A Home Low Unseen Since 1966
The Proteas' top order folded again in Gqeberha, marking the first time in 60 years they have lost four wickets so cheaply at home against Australia.
South Africa's batting woes deepened on Day 2 of the second Test in Gqeberha, where they were reduced to 40 for four inside 21.3 overs by Australia's seam attack. It is the first occasion since the Johannesburg Test of 1966 that the hosts have lost four wickets with 40 or fewer on the board at home. Having already been beaten in Durban, the Proteas are now fighting to keep the series alive.
Scott Boland, recalled after missing the opener, did the early damage on Day 1 by knocking over Aiden Markram with a delivery that jagged back into the stumps, then saw David Bedingham edge behind off the very next ball. When play resumed, debutant Marques Ackerman, pushed up to open despite being a middle-order player, chased a wide one and was caught by Alex Carey. Matthew Breetzke then gifted Mitchell Starc a wicket with a loose drive, also pouched by Carey.
Pat Cummins won the toss under overcast skies and chose to bowl, and rain has repeatedly interrupted the contest. There is a precedent for a recovery: in that 1966 match South Africa were 35 for four, bowled out for 199, then posted 620 and won by 233 runs. Repeating that would suit them now.