South Africa crush Australia by an innings and 31 runs in second Test

South Africa wrapped up the five‑day series against Australia with a dominant performance at the Wanderers, declaring their first innings at 425 for 9 and then dismissing the visitors for 99 and 295 to win by an innings and 31 runs.

Opening the batting, South Africa’s Aiden Markram anchored the innings with a commanding 112 off 124 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. He was supported by a solid 63 from Lutho Ackerman, who struck three fours, and a quick 40 from Janneman Malan (recorded as Bedingham) before the first wicket fell at 112. The middle order added valuable contributions: Janneman Malan’s 33, Ryan Rickelton’s 31 and Pieter Malan’s 85, while the tail pushed the total past the 400‑run mark before the declaration after 127.1 overs.

Australia’s reply crumbled early. Mitchell Starc produced an extraordinary spell, delivering 24.1 overs, eight maidens and taking 10 wickets for 93 runs at an economy of 3.68. In tandem, Pat Cummins bowled 26 overs, conceding 96 runs for a single wicket, and Tim Hazlewood added three wickets for 43 runs in 14 overs. The hosts were bowled out for just 99 runs in 42.3 overs, with only a handful of runs beyond the top order.

Facing a massive deficit, Australia showed more resolve in the second innings, posting 295 all out in 107.1 overs. Opening batsman Cameron Green (listed as Head) made 45, while Marnus Labuschagne contributed 65. However, South Africa’s attack, led again by Starc’s relentless accuracy, forced a collapse. The visitors could not overcome the lead, and South Africa secured the victory without needing to bat again.

Key bowling figures for South Africa included Starc’s 10‑wicket haul, Hazlewood’s three for 43, and Boland’s two wickets from 29 overs. Australia’s most effective bowler was Kagiso Rabada, who claimed three wickets for 23 runs in 12 overs, while Hazlewood also took five wickets in the second innings.

The win gives South Africa a comprehensive series lead and leaves Australia to regroup after a humbling defeat on home soil.