Story perspectives

Rabada Returns as South Africa Shuffles Batting Lineup

By Drooid · Oct 18, 2026, 11:06 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

South Africa fielded fast bowler Kagiso Rabada in the second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha.
South Africa dropped Tristan Stubbs, shifted Ryan Rickelton to wicketkeeper and recalled Matthew Breetzke to open.
Josh Hazlewood claimed 6-49 with reverse swing, the most old-ball movement since Durban 2018.
Heavy cloud covered 83% of the stadium and a 25% rain chance loomed on day one.

History

Historical Context

The 2005 Ashes, where England reclaimed the urn with a 2-1 series win—their first home victory since 1985—showed how selection tweaks, including captain Michael Vaughan’s bold moves, and rain-affected matches could swing outcomes. South Africa’s 2024 second Test at St George’s Park echoes that pattern, retaining Kagiso Rabada while reshuffling the keeper role amid looming weather disruptions.

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Story summary

South Africa fielded fast bowler Kagiso Rabada in the second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha.
South Africa dropped Tristan Stubbs, shifted Ryan Rickelton to wicketkeeper and recalled Matthew Breetzke to open.
Josh Hazlewood claimed 6-49 with reverse swing, the most old-ball movement since Durban 2018.
Heavy cloud covered 83% of the stadium and a 25% rain chance loomed on day one.

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