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The super-sub with star billing, Boland seizes his moment (again)

Scott Boland has maintained unprecedented effectiveness as Australia's ace on seaming surfaces thanks to a one-format approach and unwavering support of Australia's heirachy

Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 at 9:35 PM
The super-sub with star billing, Boland seizes his moment (again)
Key Things to Know
  • Scott Boland impressed in his Test return by taking four wickets against South Africa in Gqeberha.
  • Australia's selectors chose Boland over spinner Nathan Lyon for the second Test match.
  • Boland lowered his career bowling average to 18.08, the best post-WWII mark for bowlers with 50-plus wickets.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Scott Boland made an impactful return to Australia's Test team during the second Test against South Africa at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Selected ahead of spinner Nathan Lyon, the 37-year-old paceman took four wickets across 14 overs in rain-affected conditions, troubling South Africa's top order with his precise seam bowling.

The performance brought Boland's career Test tally to 86 wickets with an average of 18.08, the best mark by any bowler with at least 50 wickets since World War II. Boland attributed his effectiveness to his red-ball focus and careful physical management under national selectors.

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