South Africa began their second Test innings against Australia at Dafabet St George's Park in Gqeberha after a delayed start on the morning of Sunday, 18 October 2026. Australia won the toss and elected to field, putting South Africa in to bat on a day affected by rain. The home side named Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma, captain Matthew Breetzke, wicket keeper Wiaan Mulder, Ryan Rickelton, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje.
Australia's lineup included Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Josh Hazlewood. The match officials were Chris Gaffaney, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Javagal Srinath and Arno Jacobs. Play was scheduled to commence at 09:00 UK time following the interruption.
South Africa will look to post a competitive total against a strong Australian bowling attack featuring the pace duo of Rabada and Nortje. The result of the opening day will set the tone for the remainder of the five-day contest in the Men's International Test Match Series.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing