Proteas bowlers skittle out Aussies to level series

October 22, 2026

The Proteas’ bowling attack was relentless in the push for a result on Day 5 as World Test Championship champions beat Australia by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha to level their 3-match series at 1-1.

After weather interruptions disrupted the opening two days, South Africa seized control through captain, Temba Bavuma’s, monumental 179 and a record-breaking 183-run eighth-wicket partnership with Simon Harmer (82), which propelled the hosts to a formidable 425/9 declared.

Marco Jansen’s devastating spell of 5/33 then skittled Australia for just 99 in their first innings, forcing the visitors to follow on.

Resuming play on the final morning with an innings defeat looming, Australia pinned their hopes on Travis Head.

Head, who played with supreme authority against both pace and spin, extended his overnight score to a magnificent 121 off 190 deliveries, striking 15 boundaries.

Kagiso Rabada, who finished with superb figures of 4/77, broke through the resistance with searing pace and accuracy, while Wiaan Mulder chipped in with 3/64.

Simon Harmer also made crucial contributions with his off-spin as South Africa eventually bowled Australia out for 295 in 107.1 overs.

The emphatic victory provides a significant boost to South Africa’s campaign in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27.

🚨 MATCH RESULT 🚨

What a phenomenal game, what an incredible display from #TheProteas! An absolutely heart-stopping performance! 🤩

Bavuma led the way with the bat, and our bowlers ran riot with the ball! 💪🔥

#TheProteas level the series 1-1 with a comprehensive victory by an innings and 31 runs! 🇿🇦

#Unbreakable #SAvAUS

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 22, 2026