Proteas coach, Shukri Conrad is ready to embrace the challenge at St George's Park.
Second Test: SA vs Australia, St George's Park
Welcome to IOL's live coverage of the second Test. We will keep you in the loop with all the major moments and updates from Gqeberha as the Proteas look to level the series.
IOL senior cricket writer, Zaahier Adams is at the historic venue and will provide on-the-ground analysis while IOL Sport's Rowan Callaghan will take care of the blog.
IOL Sports Editor, Myron Naicker, penned this report in the build up.
It was at St George’s Park in 2018 where South Africa drew level against Australia, driven by AB de Villiers’ unbeaten 126 and Kagiso Rabada’s 11-wicket match haul. Trailing 1-0 after a heavy loss in Durban, the Proteas return to a venue steeped in fightback precedent.
Backed by the St George's Park brass band and a local fan base used to success with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the home side has plenty of energy to lean on. However, coastal winds and potential rain will dictate match-morning tactics.
Rabada’s return to lead the pace attack brings instant authority. Selection hinges on the weather, with decisions pending on whether to retain both Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer or add a seamer or batter. Matthew Breetzke is in line to feature, while Marques Ackerman remains in the mix for a Test debut.
Despite batting lineup questions, South Africa are relying on their big-match pedigree — having beaten India at home and Australia at Lord's.
"When you're playing against a team that's in front, you've got to match that fight," Proteas captain Temba Bavuma said. "We trust that whichever way we go, we'll fit a very competitive eleven."
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