South Africa captain Temba Bavuma delivered a remarkable performance, scoring his Test-best 179, leading his team into a commanding position against Australia in the second Test held in Gqeberha. This innings was crucial in rescuing the Proteas from a dire situation at 40-4, with Australia’s bowlers initially dominating the rain-affected match.

Bavuma's outstanding effort was complemented by significant contributions from lower-order batsmen: Marco Jansen with 85 and Simon Harmer adding 82. Their partnership proved pivotal, with Bavuma and Jansen forming a solid 132-run stand for the seventh wicket, while the eighth wicket partnership of 183 with Harmer set a strong foundation for South Africa.

On the bowling front, Kagiso Rabada made an immediate impact upon returning from injury, dismissing Nic Maddinson for a duck on just his fourth ball back. By the end of day three, Australia found themselves at 3-1, still trailing by 422 runs after South Africa declared at 425-9.

As the match progresses, time becomes a critical factor for the hosts, who aim to level the series after losing the first Test by 214 runs. Meanwhile, former Australia batter David Warner criticized the poor attendance at the matches, calling the situation "pathetic" and questioning the future of Test cricket in South Africa.