SA vs AUS Weather Forecast for 2nd Test in Gqeberha (October 18)
Kagiso Rabada returns as South Africa make three changes for SA vs AUS 2nd Test.
The 2nd Test between South Africa and Australia started on October 18 at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. The visitors are leading the series 1-0 after winning the opening Test in Durban by 214 runs.
South Africa will be looking to bounce back on home soil and level the series. Meanwhile, Australia will aim to continue their stellar performance and move closer to sealing the series.
However, rain has interrupted Day 1 of the second Test. Both teams are waiting for the weather to improve before play can begin again.
Australia win the toss and opt to bowl first
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Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and decided to bowl first against South Africa. The visitors have made one change to their playing XI, with Scott Boland replacing Nathan Lyon.
Australia have decided to go into the match without a specialist spinner, despite Lyon being fit. Their pace attack includes Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Boland.
South Africa have made three changes after their heavy defeat in Durban. Kagiso Rabada‘s return will strengthen the bowling attack. Meanwhile, Marques Ackerman and Matthew Breetzke have also been included in the playing XI. Ryan Rickelton will take over the wicketkeeping duties.
Rain delays the start of the SA vs AUS 2nd Test
Rain returned shortly after the toss, forcing the ground staff to cover the pitch again. The drizzle later turned into steady rain, leaving both teams waiting in the pavilion.
However, after a while, the rain stopped, and both teams took the field. But play did not last long. After 12.2 overs, rain interrupted the game again. When the match was halted, South Africa’s score was 20/2.
The weather could also affect Day 2, with showers expected in Gqeberha. Conditions are forecast to improve from Day 3, which could give both teams more time to play if the early delays are limited.
South Africa will need a strong batting performance to challenge Australia in the second Test. However, the damp pitch and cloudy conditions could make the opening session difficult for the batters once play gets underway.
The St George’s Park pitch has also attracted attention ahead of the match. Australian batter Steve Smith noticed grass and moisture on the surface, which could help fast bowlers initially.
Speaking to Mark Howard on Kayo Sports, Smith said the pitch had “a bit of grass” and was “a bit damp actually”.
Smith also spoke about his conversation with the head curator, who told him that he preferred to keep some moisture in the surface.
“I was taken back by that. I don’t think I’ve seen that before,” Smith said.
He also warned that the conditions “could be tricky for the batters early doors”.
Who won the toss in the South Africa vs Australia 2nd Test?
Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bowl first in the 2nd Test.
Where is the SA vs AUS 2nd Test being played?
The SA vs AUS 2nd Test is being played at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, South Africa.
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