South Africa wrapped up the second Test in Gqeberha with an innings and 31 runs victory over Australia, setting up a series decider in Cape Town. The Proteas broke through late on day five to dismiss Australia for 295 after the tourists had responded to South Africa’s first innings total of 425-9 declared.
Travis Head’s century, a patient 121, stood out for Australia as he battled alongside Scott Boland, who survived 166 deliveries to score 40 runs. Their resistance stretched deep into the final session, boosted by rain wiping out the first session of the day. But Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder made sure the tourists’ fightback ended before light forced a draw.
Rabada took 4-77, including some key wickets as Australia faltered in their second innings. Mulder bowled with accuracy and found movement off the pitch to dismiss Head, Boland, and captain Pat Cummins. Marco Jansen, who had put South Africa in control with a five-wicket haul on day four, claimed the final wicket to complete the innings victory.
South Africa’s innings was anchored by Temba Bavuma, who scored 179, and Marco Jansen contributed 85. The home side had been under pressure early on, with Australia reducing them to 40-4 and then 110-6 in their first innings. Bavuma’s innings swung momentum back in South Africa’s favour, turning the match on its head after their heavy defeat in the first Test at Durban.
The victory in Gqeberha adds to South Africa’s record of memorable Test wins over Australia, joining famous moments such as the 2018 Test on the same ground during the Sandpaper series and the 2024 World Test Championship final.
South Africa now leads the three-match series 1-0 heading into the final Test in Cape Town. The Proteas will be confident after their fightback here, having twice dismissed Australia and built a substantial lead in the series.
The Cape Town match promises a tense conclusion with the series finely poised following South Africa’s innings win in Gqeberha.
According to BBC Sports.
