AUS vs SA 2nd Test: Head to Head, Playing XI, Preview, Where to Watch on TV, Online, and Live Streaming Details

Australia and South Africa are set to collide for the second Test match of the series at the iconic MCG, following their chaotic two-day series opener at the Gabba. The surface in the series opener was a bowling paradise and even received a 'below average' rating, piling the pressure on the curators of the MCG for the blockbuster Boxing Day encounter.

The hosts are on cloud nine following their enthralling victory in the series opener, however, they will be wary of the Proteas threat, who have a point to prove in the second Test match of the series. Scott Boland, the local hero, returns to the venue after a sensational debut against England last year, retaining his place at the expense of the injured Josh Hazlewood.

Meanwhile, the Proteas have got all to do in the series after their batting woes came to the fore yet again in the longest format of the game. Although Dean Elgar put much of the blame on a treacherous Gabba surface, he lamented the poor application of his batters in hostile batting conditions. However, he is bullish about his side's chances in the series and is confident of bouncing back from the loss in the series opener.

Pitch and Conditions

The last match at this venue was the famous Ashes Test match between Australia and England which saw the hosts seal the urn on a bowling-friendly surface. The pitch will assist the pacers, and the batters will have to bide their time at the crease as run-scoring won't be easy.

Probable Playing XI for AUS vs SA 2nd Test

Australia

Josh Hazlewood misses his third Test match on the trot due to a side strain. However, The Aussies have got an able replacement in the form of Scott Boland. It is the lean form of senior opening batter David Warner that is a concern for the home side heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

Australia XI: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

South Africa

The Proteas were blown away by the Australian pace attack in the series opener at the Gabba and will have to make some batting changes going into the second Test. They will have to apply themselves better at the crease if they wish to level the three-match series.

Probable Playing XI: Dean Elgar (c), Sarel Erwee, Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, Khaya Zondo, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi

AUS vs SA Head to Head

Played - 99 | Australia - 53 | South Africa - 26 | Draw – 20

AUS vs SA Broadcast Details

Match Timings – 5:00 AM IST

Live Streaming – Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV app