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Taunts and turmoil: Jansen, Rabada get under Aussies’ skin

Questions hover over Australia's batting group as they seek a way to stop things going further sideways before Newlands…

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 8:00 PM
Taunts and turmoil: Jansen, Rabada get under Aussies’ skin
Key Things to Know
  • South Africa fast bowlers Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada rattled Australia with aggressive bowling and verbal taunts in Gqeberha.
  • Australia collapsed for just 99 runs in their first innings, marking their lowest first-innings total in a decade.
  • Marco Jansen dismantled the Australian top order, securing a five-wicket haul alongside his earlier half-century.
The Story in 60 Seconds

South African fast bowlers Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada exerted immense pressure through sharp bowling and verbal exchanges as Australia collapsed for just 99 in their first innings at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Jansen claimed five of Australia's top seven wickets on day four and taunted several batters, including Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Renshaw, and Beau Webster. Australia now faces a battle on day five to salvage a draw in the second Test.

Australian head coach Andrew McDonald described the batting display as disappointing batter error, noting that Cameron Green and Josh Inglis will be available for selection ahead of the third Test at Newlands. Steve Smith's batting was limited by a neck complaint, while Labuschagne was dismissed for another score in the 30s after ending a 92-run stand with Travis Head.

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