Prince says rain-affected South Africa-Australia Test remains open

The ICC published a report on South Africa’s hopes in its World Test Championship fixture against Australia in Gqeberha, where batting coach Ashwell Prince says the contest remains open. Rain has limited play to 43 overs across the first 2 days, with South Africa reaching 97/5 in their first innings at stumps on Monday.

Prince, a former South Africa left-hander, said there was still time for his team to force a result, despite the curtailed play. South Africa still had a substantial task ahead to stay in contention to win the Test and claim the 3-game series, according to the report.

Prince said the ball was moving and expected it to continue doing so as the Test progressed; he also noted moisture, rain and a softer-than-usual surface. He said divots were already developing on the pitch and suggested sunshine might firm the surface, potentially making the ball move faster.

Prince also praised Temba’s decision-making, calling it a major positive in his play that day. He added that discussion often focuses on technique and technical aspects, while maintaining that South Africa still had time to pursue a result.