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'I want to play every Test' - Scott Boland sends strong message to Australian selectors after 4-31 haul in rain-affected Gqeberha Test

Scott Boland made a compelling case for Test match inclusion with a standout performance in the rain-disrupted second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, where he finished with match figures of 4/31. The 37-year-old, Australia’s oldest specialist fast bowler since Ray Lindwall in 1960, capitalized on limited opportunities, taking early wickets with sharp bowling—including consecutive deliveries to Aiden Markram and David Bedingham on Day 1.

His impact continued on Day 2, where he dismissed Marques Ackerman and contributed to South Africa’s collapse to 40/4 before finishing the session with figures of 4/31 as the hosts reached 97/5. Boland’s selection came after Josh Hazlewood’s withdrawal due to illness, leaving him as Australia’s only frontline fast bowler amid heavy rain that reduced play to just 30 overs.

Despite his limited Test appearances—20 in total—Boland emphasized his desire to play every possible match, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining selection as he ages. South Africa’s batting coach, Ashwell Prince, drew comparisons to former Proteas fast bowler Vernon Philander, praising Boland’s consistency and ability to extract bounce from his height advantage, which complicates batting for opponents.

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