SA feel the strain as Rabada battles stomach cramps, Jansen back stiffness

South Africa pace bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen battled physical issues on day two of the Test against Australia at Newlands. Rabada struggled with stomach cramps and went off the field twice, though he is expected to return on day three. Jansen also briefly left the pitch after tea due to back stiffness, but returned to bowl with the second new ball as Australia took a first-innings lead.

South Africa bowling coach Piet Botha indicated the ailments stem from a heavy workload following a lengthy break from Test cricket. Rabada, returning after a serious hamstring injury, showed noticeably reduced pace, bowling in the 130s kph and recording 0 for 81. Jansen claimed 2 for 37, while replacement Gerald Coetzee went wicketless in his first Test in nearly two years.