South Africa not giving up hope as Bavuma looms as key

Gqeberha: South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince believes his side's ICC World Test Championship fixture against Australia in Gqeberha is still up for grabs despite the fact rain has ruined much of the first two days of play.

Only 43 overs have been bowled across the first two days as rain at St George's Park, with the Proteas reaching 97/5 at stumps on Monday in their first innings and still with a mountain to climb if they are to remain in contention of winning the Test and claiming the three-game series.

But Prince has not given up hope just yet, with the former South Africa left-hander and current batting coach suggesting there was still plenty of time for his side to force a result.

"We still have to bowl as well. The ball is moving around and I think the ball will move around as the Test match goes on," Prince said at stumps on day two.

"There's already some divots out there. Obviously, weather conditions before the match, plus during the match, with moisture, rain, pitch may be starting out a bit softer than usual. So, there are divots already developing on the surface.

"If the sun comes out, that might firm up and the ball might move around a little bit faster, maybe. We don't know. So, we say you can only tell what the pitch does until both teams are batted."

If the Proteas are going to post a decent total in their first innings and give their strong pace attack something to bowl at then they will require further patience at the crease from skipper Temba Bavuma as the captain remained unbeaten at stumps on day two with a dogged 41 not out already to his name.

Bavuma has been the only South Africa batter to look comfortable in the difficult conditions in Gqeberha and Prince has been suitably impressed with the efforts of the veteran right-hander thus far.

"I think a big part and a big positive in Temba's play today was decision-making," Prince added.

"There tends to be a lot of discussion about technique and technical things. But I think decision-making so far from him was exceptional.

"At the moment, the skipper's out there digging deep, standing up, long way to continue tomorrow. And hopefully you'll have a few partners digging in with him. And that's why we love this format."