‘Machines’ remobilise but more toil to test ageing attack

Australia's experienced fast-bowling attack faces an intense workload test across a congested fixture schedule on less bowler-friendly surfaces. After Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins all bowled heavily in a five-day series-opening victory over South Africa in Durban, the seamers are preparing for the second Test in Gqeberha ahead of a demanding stretch of 10 additional Tests over 14 weeks.

Hazlewood and Starc have regularly opened the bowling while both aged 35 or older, a rare feat in Australian Test history. Despite the looming physical toil, Hazlewood noted he is embracing this later stage of his career, while South Africa batter David Bedingham acknowledged the challenge of trying to wear down Australia's relentless pace group.