South Africa Dominates Australia in Second Test, Series Tied 1-1

In a thrilling encounter, South Africa secured a commanding victory over Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test at Gqeberha. Captain Temba Bavuma's stellar 179 runs, along with significant contributions from Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer, propelled South Africa to a strong position. Despite a valiant effort from Travis Head, who scored 121 runs in the follow-on innings, Australia fell short, leading to a tied series at 1-1. Discover the key moments and performances that defined this match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 23, 2026, 00:22 IST

South Africa's Impressive Victory

Gqeberha [South Africa], October 22: In a remarkable display of skill, South Africa triumphed over Australia by an innings and 31 runs during the second Test at St George's Park, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.

Captain Temba Bavuma played a pivotal role in the team's recovery, scoring an impressive 179 runs. His efforts were bolstered by Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer, who helped South Africa declare at 425/9 after a shaky start at 110/6.

Bavuma's innings spanned 334 balls and included 18 boundaries and a six, anchoring the team's total. Jansen contributed a brisk 85 runs off 100 balls, featuring nine fours and three sixes, while Harmer added 82 runs from 157 deliveries, establishing a solid first-innings lead for South Africa.

Historically, South Africa has a strong record when enforcing the follow-on, winning 28 out of 33 Tests, with the other five resulting in draws.

Conversely, Australia has faced challenges when forced to follow on, losing 30 and drawing 11 of their 41 Tests under such circumstances.

Gqeberha has proven to be a tough venue for Australia, marking their fifth defeat there, making it only the second Test location outside England where they have lost five times, alongside Karachi. Their last Test victory at this venue dates back to 1997.

In their first innings, Australia struggled significantly against South Africa's bowling, being bowled out for a mere 99 runs in 42.3 overs. Jansen was the standout bowler, taking five wickets for 33 runs, while Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada chipped in with two wickets each.

Jansen made history by becoming the second South African since readmission to achieve both a half-century and a five-wicket haul in the same Test against Australia, replicating Dale Steyn's feat at the MCG in 2008.

Steve Smith was the top scorer for Australia, managing 28 runs off 88 balls.

In their follow-on innings, Australia showed more resilience, particularly through Travis Head, who scored a determined 121 runs off 190 balls, including 15 boundaries. This marked the first time Australia has lost an international match after Head scored a century in 21 instances, with the only other exception being a drawn Test against India in Brisbane in 2024.

Marnus Labuschagne contributed 39 runs, while Scott Boland added 40 runs off 166 balls, and Alex Carey remained not out on 37. However, Rabada's four wickets and Mulder's three wickets ensured Australia was bowled out for 295 runs in 107.1 overs, sealing South Africa's victory.