Boland’s four wickets leave South Africa struggling in second Test

Scott Boland took four wickets as South Africa slumped to 97-5 on day two of the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha, leaving the hosts with a steep challenge to turn the series around. [1]

Rain restricted play for much of the day, but Boland’s precise bowling continued to trouble South Africa’s top order. He finished with 4-31, including the wicket of debutant opener Marques Ackerman, who edged behind after facing 38 balls.

South Africa made two batting changes after losing the first Test. Ackerman opened despite never having done so in a red-ball match, while Matthew Breetzke was selected after his white-ball performances. Breetzke made four before edging Mitchell Starc; Ryan Rickelton, moved from opener to number six and wicketkeeper, was caught off Boland for 26.

Temba Bavuma was unbeaten on 41 at stumps. Australia had yet to bat, and South Africa had three days left to regain momentum as the weather was forecast to improve.

Boland, who replaced Nathan Lyon in the side, took 4-31 from 84 deliveries. BBC Sport reported that 63% landed on a good line and length, and 24% would have gone on to hit the stumps. Australia were also without Josh Hazlewood, who stayed at the team hotel because of illness. [1]

The performance may offer England bowler Ollie Robinson a useful example ahead of England’s tour of South Africa: BBC Sport noted that the pair have similar bowling styles. The report said Boland’s Test average stood at 18.08, a rate unmatched by any bowler since the First World War among those with as many wickets. [1]