South Africa head into the encounter on the back foot after suffering a 214-run defeat to the Baggy Greens in the first Test at Kingsmead in Durban. The Australians were in control for much of the match, while the Proteas looked somewhat rusty in their first outing of the series.

However, the home side will feel they missed a golden opportunity to put Australia under serious pressure after reducing the visitors to 124/6 in their first innings, only to allow them to recover and post a formidable total.

Matthew Breetzke and Kagiso Rabada - Cricinfo

The in-form Matthew Breetzke has been drafted into the squad for the Test on his home ground, replacing fellow Eastern Cape batter Tristan Stubbs. Meanwhile, Ryan Rickelton will take over the wicketkeeping duties from Kyle Verreynne. The Western Province player remains in the squad, although all indications suggest he will not feature in the starting XI.

While captain Temba Bavuma has indicated that Kagiso Rabada is fit and ready to return, there is still no confirmation that the Proteas’ premier fast bowler will make his eagerly anticipated comeback from a hamstring injury.

Proteas coach Shukri Conrad explained that Breetzke’s impressive form has earned him another opportunity at Test level, with the Eastern Cape batter potentially set to make just his third appearance in the longest format.

“There is one change to the squad, with Tristan Stubbs unfortunately missing out and Matthew Breetzke replacing him,” said Conrad.

“Matt has been part of the squad before, having played one Test match in Bangladesh and then another in Zimbabwe.

“The fact that he has scored a century and is in such good form in ODI cricket has given him an inside lane. More importantly, I think the attitude and character that Matt brings will go a long way.”

Ryan Rickelton - Cricinfo

Rickelton endured a difficult outing with the bat in Durban, scoring a duck in the first innings and just two runs in the second. However, Conrad stressed that the decision to hand him the gloves brings further considerations, particularly regarding his position in the batting order.

“The other noteworthy news is that Ryan Rickelton will be taking the gloves in the second Test,” Conrad added.

“With Ryan taking over the wicketkeeping duties, there are obviously decisions to be made about whether he moves down the order or continues opening the batting while keeping wicket, as he has done before.

“Those are some of the conversations we need to have. We will also look at the conditions and the weather. The forecast for the first day isn't great, so there are a few things to consider before we finalise the playing XI.”

Despite the disappointment of falling 1-0 behind in the series, Conrad believes the Proteas have an ideal opportunity to reset and respond at one of the country’s most iconic cricket venues.

The challenge now is to turn the lessons from Durban into a more disciplined and clinical performance, particularly with the ball, where South Africa will need to make their opportunities count.

Tristan Stubbs - Cricinfo

“We're rather excited. We've had the opportunity to lick our wounds and make sure we turn this ship in the right direction. There's no better place to start than Gqeberha.”

The first ball of the 2nd Test at St George’s Park is scheduled to be bowled at 10:00 on Sunday morning.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport