Boland stakes claim, Green timeline firms as Proteas prepare to unleash ‘Rolls Royce’ in 2nd Test

Australia and South Africa are finalizing preparations for the second Test in Gqeberha, with Scott Boland pressing for selection and South Africa expecting star bowler Kagiso Rabada to return. Boland impressed during nets practice against Josh Inglis, though Australia is likely to field an unchanged lineup. Cameron Green has also returned to the nets following an abdominal injury, but Australian assistant coach Matthew Wade indicated Green is more likely to make his return in the third Test in Cape Town.

South Africa is aiming to bounce back after suffering a 214-run defeat in the opening match in Durban. Coach Shukri Conrad confirmed the Proteas are preparing to bring back Rabada from a hamstring injury to spearhead their pace attack. The hosts are planning at least three lineup changes, including the omission of Tristan Stubbs for Matthew Breetzke, as well as replacing wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne with Ryan Rickelton.