South Africa drop Stubbs for Gqeberha Test; Breetzke and Rickelton in
Stubbs axed after low scores in Durban defeat; Breetzke called up and Rickelton to keep wicket.
South Africa have made two changes to their squad for the second Test against Australia in Gqeberha. Tristan Stubbs has been dropped after scores of 32 and 1 in the first Test defeat at Kingsmead. Matthew Breetzke replaces him, while Ryan Rickelton will take the gloves in place of Kyle Verreynne.
Breetzke has played two Tests and scored 14 runs, but he scored a century in the opening ODI against Australia last month. Coach Shukri Conrad said Breetzke's recent form, attitude and character earned him selection. Rickelton's promotion as wicketkeeper could see him move down the order or continue opening.
Kagiso Rabada is expected to return from a hamstring injury, while Anrich Nortje's availability remains in doubt after his first long-format match in three years. The second Test begins on Sunday at St George's Park.
CricHubb Take
Rickelton's move behind the stumps could force a re-think on who opens, and whether South Africa are willing to give Breetzke a proper run or just a one-off roll of the dice.