Batting problems persist

A lack of significant individual scores and partnerships continues to compromise the Proteas in big Tests.

Predictable end to a miserable tour

South African sporting teams have become accustomed to walking into the arrivals area at OR Tambo International with a crowd of supporters singing and dancing. That’s not going to happen for Faf du Plessis’ Proteas, writes GARY LEMKE.

A bridge too far at Old Trafford

First, the winning chances for South Africa in their final Test match of this England series at Old Trafford: ok, moving on quickly, writes GARY LEMKE.

Familiar story as Proteas lose their way

South Africa asked for the heavy roller between innings on day two at Old Trafford, but instead it was they who found themselves flattened on another desperately poor day at the office.

Proteas need to handle day two pressure

Normally, when a side has been asked to bowl first and has the opposition six wickets down by stumps with only 260 runs on the board, you’d think the bowling side has won the day, writes GARY LEMKE.

All eyes on Faf

Faf du Plessis has to deliver as a batsman and tactician in South Africa’s must-win Test at Old Trafford.

Is it time to give Markram a go?

It will be harsh on Heino Kuhn, but the fourth Test at Old Trafford could be a great opportunity to hand Aiden Markram a Test debut at the top of the order.

Mistakes were made – now let’s move on

There’s no time to point fingers. This is a lightning quick turnaround before the start of the final Test on Friday, writes GARY LEMKE. This third Test at The Oval was over as a contest after day three. In many aspects the match mirrored the first Test at Lord’s, before South Africa continued their Jekyll ’n Hyde display with a… Read more →

Amla leads hunt for hundreds

The Proteas’ search for centuries may come to an end this week when they revisit the scene of Hashim Amla’s record-breaking triple-ton.

Proteas strike the balance

Picking an all-rounder and moving Quinton de Kock up the order were two sustainable selection decisions to work from.

Four-day Tests a farce

Four-day Tests will rob Test cricket of the knockout blows that have shaped the classic five-day battles over the years.

Proteas find batting fire

Gritty performances by the Proteas’ top six at Trent Bridge bode well for a crucial contest at the Oval.

Slow poison works as SA edge closer

South Africa applied the slow poison on day three at Trent Bridge to leave themselves 10 wickets away from winning the second Test and 180 overs in which to do it.

Inspired SA hold all the aces

With 15 wickets falling on a dramatic second day at Trent Bridge, South Africa are well in control of a Test match which should see them level the series, writes GARY LEMKE.

De Kock deserves key role

Quinton de Kock has to be backed at No 4 in the absence of AB de Villiers.