‘Need to get bloody better’: changes loom for Proteas

South Africa coach Shukri Conrad has signaled potential lineup changes ahead of the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha following a 214-run loss in Durban. Conrad criticized his batters' mental approach and decision-making, noting they repeatedly threw wickets away. While urging the squad to emulate Aiden Markram's patient fourth-innings 75, Conrad confirmed the coaching staff would evaluate adjustments without making knee-jerk decisions.

Strike bowler Kagiso Rabada is expected to return for the second match after recovering from a hamstring tear. The coaching staff is assessing underperforming players, including Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Kyle Verreynne, after a 10-month absence from Test cricket contributed to South Africa's struggles against the Australian bowling attack.