South Africa fielded eight players over 30 years old against Australia in Gqeberha on Sunday, 18 October 2026. This rare milestone in South Africa Test cricket occurred for the first time in 102 years.
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Rain severely disrupted the opening day of the second Test at St George’s Park, limiting play to just 12.2 overs. Australian captain Pat Cummins chose to field after winning the toss. The visitors quickly capitalized on favorable seam conditions, reducing the Proteas to 20 for two before heavy rain stopped play.
Scott Boland Justifies Selection in South Africa Test Cricket Series
Australian fast bowler Scott Boland replaced spinner Nathan Lyon in the playing XI. Boland immediately justified his selection with a double strike in consecutive deliveries.
Boland first nipped a ball back off the seam to clean bowl opener Aiden Markram for 11. On the very next delivery, he found the edge of David Bedingham to secure his second wicket. Boland briefly appealed for an LBW against Proteas captain Temba Bavuma for a hat-trick, but an inside edge saved the skipper.
His performance demonstrated why the Australian management opted for a four-man pace attack in damp conditions.
A 102-Year Record for Veteran Players
Proteas management made three lineup changes after losing the series opener by 214 runs in Durban. They brought in Mathew Breetzke, Kagiso Rabada, and 30-year-old debutant Marquess Ackerman.
With Ackerman and Rabada in the squad, South Africa fielded eight players over 30 years old for the first time since 1924. Australia fielded an even older lineup, with all 11 players over 30 years old.
For Australia, Scott Boland and Steve Smith are the oldest players at 37, while Matt Renshaw is the youngest at 30. For South Africa, spinner Simon Harmer is the oldest at 37, while all-rounder Marco Jansen is the youngest at 26.
Experience remains crucial as both teams compete for vital standings in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test championship.