The second test between South Africa and Australia started with Australia leading from the start but rain disrupted most of the opening day at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
South Africa were on 20/2 after 12.2 overs when play was stopped. Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bowl first, which was a good decision in an overcast situation.
The Australian fast bowlers made good use of the conditions and put pressure on South Africa’s top order. Australia was able to take two crucial wickets which limited the weather, but both players had to survive and leave the hosts needing a sustained recovery on the second day.
Scott Boland Delivers Two Quick Wickets
Scott Boland was Australia’s best bowler on the opening day. He dismissed Aiden Markram for 11 and David Bedingham for a golden duck on the next delivery.
Markram was bowled, while Bedingham edged the ball to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Boland ended up with figures of 2/5 from 3.2 overs, giving Australia an early advantage.
In addition, Josh Hazlewood also bowled economically, conceding only three runs in five overs. The disciplined bowling made it difficult for South Africa to build momentum before rain interrupted the contest.
At the end of a day of play, debutant Marques Ackerman was unbeaten on five and South African captain Temba Bavuma on four. Both batsmen will be of great importance for the hosts when play resumes.
Boland just sent the middle stump packing! 🎯💥 Watch all the action from Australia’s Tour of South Africa LIVE on FanCode 📲 #SAvAUS #ScottBoland #AidenMarkram #TestCricket #Cricket https://t.co/EFWmiqOWmm
— FanCode (@FanCode) October 18, 2026
Rain Remains a Major Concern
Rain was the biggest hurdle on Day 1, allowing only a brief period of cricket. The interruptions prevented both teams from settling into the match and raised concerns about how much play would be possible over the remaining days.
Further showers were forecast for Gqeberha on Monday, October 19. Another delay or interruption could affect the match, making every available over important for both sides.
What to Expect on Day 2
South Africa will try to rebuild their innings when play resumes. Ackerman and Bavuma need to form a partnership and prevent Australia from taking more early wickets. The hosts will also need contributions from their middle order to post a competitive total.
Australia will also try to keep pressure with the new ball. Boland and Hazlewood could be particularly dangerous if the conditions continue to favour fast bowling. Cummins will hope his bowlers can take advantage of South Africa’s vulnerable position.
Can South Africa Make a Comeback?
South Africa is going to struggle after two early wickets. Their immediate task will be to bat patiently and avoid further damage.
After their strong start, Australia will enter Day 2 as confident as it has ever been. But the weather could determine the contest as much as the performances on the field.
And the second day will see a very big fight between South Africa’s bid for recovery and Australia’s effort to strengthen their advantage, provided the weather allows enough cricket to be played.
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