South Africa seal innings victory over Australia to level series
South Africa defeated Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test in Gqeberha, setting up a series decider in Cape Town. Travis Head made 121 and Scott Boland faced 166 balls for 40, but Australia were bowled out for 295 in the final session. Kagiso Rabada took 4-77 and Marco Jansen claimed the final wicket after South Africa's first-innings 425-9 declared.
South Africa’s second-Test triumph in Gqeberha came after they declared on 425-9, built on Temba Bavuma’s 179 and Marco Jansen’s 85. Australia, who had won the opener in Durban by 214 runs, were then dismissed for 99 and 295.
On the last day, rain removed the opening session. Travis Head’s 121 and Scott Boland’s 166-ball 40 prolonged Australia’s resistance, but Kagiso Rabada’s 4-77 and Wiaan Mulder’s three wickets helped South Africa secure victory before bad light. The Cape Town Test starts Tuesday.
The result may lift South African cricket followers and draw extra attention to the Cape Town decider, potentially boosting ticket demand and media interest. For Australian supporters, it could sharpen scrutiny of the team’s batting and selection. In Gqeberha and Cape Town, match-day activity may bring short-term spending to hospitality and transport businesses, though any economic effect is likely limited and temporary.