Scott Boland’s Bowling Prowess Leaves South Africa Reeling at 97-5

PORT ELIZABETH: Australia’s paceman Scott Boland continued his impressive form, claiming two more wickets on Monday, leaving South Africa struggling at 97 runs for five wickets at stumps on the second day of the second Test at St George’s Park.

Boland concluded the rain-affected day with remarkable figures of 4-31, putting Australia in a commanding position. South Africa will resume play on Tuesday with captain Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 41 and Wiaan Mulder at the crease with two runs.

The match commenced at 3:45 p.m. local time (1345 GMT) after heavy morning rain threatened to disrupt play. Boland, who had already taken two wickets during the limited play on Sunday, struck early on the second day, dismissing debutant opener Marques Ackerman for six runs with a well-placed delivery.

Matthew Breetzke, who was brought into the South African lineup following a 214-run defeat in the first Test, fell shortly after for just four runs, caught behind off a left-arm delivery from Mitchell Starc. With South Africa in a precarious position at 40-4, Bavuma’s resilience alongside Ryan Rickelton’s efforts provided a glimmer of hope for the hosts.