Gqeberha: Scott Boland admits he is racing against advancing years to make as big a mark as possible on Test cricket.
But the evidence suggests that Australia’s oldest fast bowler since Ray Lindwall in 1960 is actually improving with each opportunity, however sporadic, to the point that South Africa offered him the highest possible praise here.
In his first Test for Australia since January, 37-year-old Boland (4-31) has been the major reason why South Africa are again in a world of trouble at 5-97, clinging to hope that captain Temba Bavuma (41 not out) can make something of their wobbly first innings before the recalled Kagiso Rabada lets rip on a drying pitch.
Australia’s Scott Boland, second from right, is congratulated by captain Pat Cummins.AP Photo/Themba Hadebe
Matt Renshaw’s stunning catch in the final half hour of play, which extended to 30.4 overs despite only beginning at 3.45pm on Monday local time (12.45am Tuesday AEDT), made the day Boland and Australia’s, after which the Indigenous paceman spoke frankly about how he had worked to try to ensure he could hit the ground sprinting whenever the selectors included him.
Australia were doubly grateful for Boland on a day when Josh Hazlewood was absent from the ground with a stomach ailment.
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