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Katich warns Australian batters their Test places are at risk

Former batsman Simon Katich says several Australia players are playing for their careers during the second Test against South Africa at Gqeberha.

By , Sports news desk

· 2 min read

Marnus Labuschagne
Marnus Labuschagne (file photo) Photo: DustyNail / Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Simon Katich has criticised Australia's batting approach in the second Test against South Africa, stating that a number of players are playing for their careers. Australia trail by 170 runs after being asked to follow on and were 156/4 at the close of day four.

Key takeaways

  • Australia trail South Africa by 170 runs after being asked to follow on in the second Test at Gqeberha.
  • Marnus Labuschagne scored 39 in the second innings before getting out to Simon Harmer.
  • Nic Maddinson made 0 and 8 across the two innings of the match.
  • Australia lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the first Test at Kingsmead by 214 runs.
  • Travis Head and Scott Boland will resume Australia's innings on the final day.

The second Test between Australia and South Africa at Gqeberha has reached a critical stage, with the visitors fighting to avoid defeat after a difficult start to the match. Rain reduced play to just 43 overs across the first two days, and South Africa capitalised on the conditions by declaring at 425/9 before bowling Australia out for 99 in the first innings.

Australia were then asked to follow on and reached 156/4 by the end of the fourth day, still trailing by 170 runs. Former Australia batsman Simon Katich has criticised the batting approach, saying several players are now playing for their careers. He specifically questioned Marnus Labuschagne's dismissal, which came when the batter attempted a high-risk shot against Simon Harmer while Australia were trying to play for a draw.

"There are a number of players playing for their careers in this innings," Katich said on SEN radio.

Labuschagne has not scored a Test century since July 2023 and has been under pressure after a series of starts that have not converted into big scores. Nic Maddinson, who retained his place despite criticism, made 0 and 8 in the match. All-rounder Beau Webster has not been of much use either. Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said "You saw what we saw" regarding Labuschagne's dismissal. He added that Labuschagne did a lot of hard work once again, and "when you do that hard work, you've got to cash in," adding "We were disappointed, and he will be too."

Australia currently lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the opening Test at Kingsmead by 214 runs. Travis Head and nightwatchman Scott Boland are set to resume Australia's innings on the fifth and final day. If Australia lose at Gqeberha, team management will face additional scrutiny, particularly over the decision to leave out Nathan Lyon for this Test.

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