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‘Gutless’: Aussies ‘throw in the towel’ as follow-on disaster has stars ‘playing for their careers’

A caveat issued to an injured Steve Smith aside, an old foe has branded Australia’s batting performance at St George’s Park on Wednesday “pretty gutless”.

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 11:55 AM
‘Gutless’: Aussies ‘throw in the towel’ as follow-on disaster has stars ‘playing for their careers’
Key Things to Know
  • Vernon Philander labelled Australia's first-innings batting as gutless after the tourists were bowled out for 99.
  • South Africa scored 425 runs before captain Temba Bavuma enforced the follow-on against Australia.
  • Simon Katich stated several Australian players are batting for their careers in the second innings.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former South Africa bowler Vernon Philander criticized Australia's batting as "pretty gutless" after the tourists were bowled out for 99 runs in their first innings at St George's Park. Responding to South Africa's total of 425, Australia collapsed in 42.3 overs, prompting Proteas captain Temba Bavuma to enforce the follow-on.

The collapse marked only the third time Australia has faced a follow-on since the 1980s. Former Australian opener Simon Katich noted that several Australian players are currently playing for their careers in the second innings, while Steve Smith was battling a severe neck injury.

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