Proteas in trouble after day two of rain-hit Test against Australia
When stumps were drawn on Monday, South Africa had reached 97/5 in their first innings.
The second day of the rain-affected Test match between South Africa and Australia in Gqeberha saw Australia firmly in charge, with the Proteas struggling to make progress. As of the close of play on Monday, South Africa had amassed 97 runs for the loss of five wickets, having faced only 43 overs in the first two days of the encounter. Temba Bavuma, who had played 108 balls, was still not out on 41 runs, while Wiaan Mulder was unbeaten on two runs off 15 balls.
Resuming their first innings at 20/2 after a delay caused by rain, South Africa struggled to make significant gains. Despite waiting for play to resume after tea, they faced early pressure from debutant Marques Ackerman, who was caught behind for six runs after facing 38 balls, and Matthew Breetzke, who was also caught behind for a duck off a Mitchell Starc delivery after contributing just four runs.
Ryan Rickelton, who received a bye when he was dropped by Marnus Labuschagne in the slips on 26, was also dismissed for 31 runs after hitting 51 balls.
Australian seam bowler Scott Boland played a crucial role in turning the match, claiming 4/31 and significantly contributing to the hosts gaining the upper hand.
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