AUSTRALIA TOUR TO SA
Zaahier Adams|Published
The Proteas’ start to the defence of their World Test Championship crown on home soil got off to a jittery start at Kingsmead.
The lack of red-ball cricket clearly showed, particularly among the batters who failed to show the necessary application at the crease.
IOL Sport’s Zaahier Adams runs the rule of the playing XI that took the field in Durban.
Aiden Markram – 8/10
The Proteas' outstanding performer. Mixed composure with resilience, highlighted by a battling 75 in the fourth innings that prolonged Australia's wait for victory. Outstanding in the slips as well.
Ryan Rickleton – 3
A disappointing match for the opener. Two failures at the top of the order could put his place in jeopardy for next week’s Test in Gqeberha
David Bedingham – 6.5
Looked among the most technically equipped Proteas batters against Australia's pace attack. Showed enough application to suggest bigger contributions lay just out of reach. Would have been disappointed not to convert one of his starts into a more substantial score.
Temba Bavuma – 4
A Test to forget for the captain. His side needed a defining innings from their leader but he was unable to make a significant impact. His dismissal to Matt Renshaw was a pivotal moment in the second innings, while he also let the game drift in the field.
Tristan Stubbs – 3.5
A difficult Test match. Seemed well-set in the first innings before gifting his wicket away before another loose shot in the second innings when his team needed much more from him. May not get another opportunity at his home ground next week.
Wiaan Mulder – 7.5
One of South Africa's best. Contributed key wickets, especially in the first innings, and almost saved the Proteas from defeat during his partnership with Markram.
Kyle Verreynne – 5
Dependable behind the stumps but failed again with the bat in both innings. The loyalty towards the Western Province keeper could be running out.
Marco Jansen – 6
Could have made the Australian openers play more with the new ball. Also had two starts with the bat without converting.
Keshav Maharaj – 5
Disappointing Test for Maharaj at his homeground. Was clearly targeted from the start by Steve Smith before Matt Reshaw swept and reverse-swept him out of the game. Showed good determination with the bat in the first innings.
Simon Harmer – 4
Was not as penetrative as hoped. Will in all likelihood lose his place at St George’s Park to accommodate Kagiso Rabada’s return to the attack
Anrich Nortje – 7.5
Hostile, aggressive and wholehearted. Frequently bowled at high pace and was one of the few bowlers capable of unsettling Australia's batters with sheer speed. Solid first Test outing in three years.