Cricket

Wet outfield causes issues in second Test

By Scott Bailey

Oct 19, 2026

Groundsmen. — Rain was again holding up play on day two of the second Test between Australia and South Africa. -AP

Australia's push for more South African wickets has been halted by the rain at St George's Park, with a wet outfield ruining the first half of day two.

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After the Proteas fell to 2-20 and just 12.2 overs were possible on day one of the second Test on Sunday, persistent rain continued across the night in Gqeberha.

The weather cleared by mid morning, but match officials were concerned by a very wet outfield, areas of mud and heavy water underground around the edge of the wicket square.

As of the post lunch session, there was still no clear indication of whether play would be able to begin on Monday.

Scott Boland had struck twice in two balls on Sunday to justify his selection ahead of Nathan Lyon, as Australia went with four quicks and no frontline spinner.Â

The Victorian first bowled Aiden Markram with a ball that nipped back and drew the inside edge, knocking out the opener's middle stump.

His next delivery pitched in about the same spot and seamed away to have David Bedingham caught behind.

A win at St George's Park would wrap up the three-Test series for Australia after the 214-run victory in Durban last week, and make them the first visiting team to triumph in South Africa since England in 2019-20.