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South Africa vs Australia: Scott Boland pushes for recall, Kagiso Rabada awaits fitness clearance

Australian fast bowler Scott Boland has bolstered his case for Test selection with a standout practice session ahead of the second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha. His ability to exploit seam movement and trouble key batsters like Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis suggests he could be a valuable addition to Australia’s pace attack, especially if the Gqeberha pitch offers less bounce than the Durban venue.

With Australia leading the series 1-0 after a dominant 214-run win in Durban, selectors may opt to rotate their bowlers, given Josh Hazlewood’s heavy workload in the first match. Meanwhile, South Africa are evaluating their options following a reshuffled squad, with Tristan Stubbs and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne omitted after underperforming in Durban.

The hosts are also monitoring the fitness of Kagiso Rabada, who missed the opener due to a hamstring injury and could return if he passes a fitness test before the second Test. South Africa’s coaching staff are also assessing batting strategies and lineup adjustments, including the potential debut of Matthew Breetzke, who has impressed with recent white-ball form.

With weather concerns looming over the first day, tactical decisions remain fluid as the teams prepare for the next chapter in this tightly contested series.

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