Former Proteas player Alviro Petersen believes that the conditions in Gqeberha could create a difficult day for batters during the resumption of the second Test against Australia on the third day at St George's Park.
The first two days of the match were marred by heavy rain, allowing only 43 overs to be played. Since much of the field was covered, moisture remained beneath the surface, causing the grass to stiffen and providing significant assistance to bowlers utilizing the ball's seam.
Australian player Scott Boland has already capitalized on these conditions, taking 4/31 to reduce Proteas' score to 97/5.
Despite the sun being expected on Tuesday, with a full playing day forecasted, Petersen believes the batters will not feel any relief.
Petersen exclusively told IOL Sport: 'I think it will be tough because obviously every time you come here, there is moisture left in the surface. It's almost like the grass is stiffening.'
He added: 'And that's what bowlers like Scott Boland, who can be compared to Vernon Philander, want. They want something where they can bowl the ball so the seam gets a little grip and flies in both directions. So I think it will be tough.'
Petersen, who has accumulated over 2000 Test innings, including five centuries, believes that adaptation in this case is more mental than physical. Temba Bavuma has already demonstrated what can be achieved through mental fortitude at the crease, and Petersen believes that middle and lower-order players will require more of this quality if Proteas wants to post a competitive first innings total.
The former player noted: 'What I have seen in recent seasons is that the guys are actually striving for it, whereas you need to walk in and play the ball late,' he said. He continued: 'But it is difficult. It takes some time to really get used to the pace and all of this, and when you feel you can do it early, it will be a real battle.'
He also believes that Proteas is in a 'Catch-22' situation: they must survive while simultaneously trying to advance the game in an attempt to level the series. He analyzed the situation between the two teams, Australia and South Africa, noting that South Africa will have two options. The question is how they will play: will they try to make something happen? It is hard to say.
The match is scheduled to start on Tuesday at 9:45 am, with Bavuma and Juan Mulder batting for Proteas.
