South Africa romped to a dazzling win, crushing Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test in Gqeberha on Thursday to level the three-match series 1-1. The architect of South Africa’s comeback was skipper Temba Bavuma, who led the fightback through a career-best 179 to put his side in a strong position despite the things getting off to a challenging start for the hosts after Australia asked the Proteas to bat.
Australia’s decision, on the other hand, appeared to pay off as Scott Boland, brought into the side in place of Nathan Lyon, exploited the conditions brilliantly to leave South Africa reeling at 110/6. He returned with a five-wicket haul to play a massive part. However, Bavuma stood firm, demonstrating great resolve to anchor the innings. His masterful knock of 179 rescued the side from a precarious position. Marco Jansen also contributed to South Africa's recovery with an 85-run knock.
And lower the order, Simon Harmer, who scored 82 runs, stitched a record-breaking 183-run partnership with Bavuma to put South Africa on top. Australia, in their first innings, crumbled dramatically, being bundled out for 99 in their first innings. The collapse handed South Africa a massive lead, prompting Temba Bavuma to enforce follow-on. Meanwhile, Australia, in their second innings, showed greater resistance but could only bring up 295.