Boland strikes twice as rain limits second Test opening day
South Africa reached 2-20 before play was abandoned, with Australia choosing four fast bowlers and leaving out Nathan Lyon.
Scott Boland dismissed Aiden Markram and David Bedingham with consecutive deliveries as Australia restricted South Africa to 2-20 on a rain-shortened opening day of the second Test in Gqerbha. Only 74 balls were bowled before play was called off ahead of tea.
Markram was bowled for 11 after edging a delivery that moved back towards him. Bedingham then edged behind when Boland moved the next ball away. An lbw appeal against Temba Bavuma on the hat-trick delivery was unsuccessful because the South African captain had edged into his pad.
Australia won the toss and selected four quicks, bringing Boland in for Nathan Lyon in their only change. It was the first time since July 2013 that a fit Lyon had been omitted from a daytime Test.
Captain Pat Cummins said conditions and Boland’s Test performances had influenced the selection. He pointed to the bowler’s seam movement, accuracy and ability to maintain control even if batting conditions became easier.
Nic Maddinson retained his opening position, while Matt Renshaw stayed at No.5 after Australia’s first-Test victory. Renshaw had also taken two wickets with his off-spin in that match.
South Africa recalled Kagiso Rabada in place of Keshav Maharaj, while Simon Harmer remained in the side. Debutant opener Marques Ackerman was unbeaten on five after facing 32 balls when rain intervened.
