The Proteas showed exactly what Test cricket is all about in Gqeberha, producing a gritty and determined comeback against Australia in true South African fashion.

After a demoralising loss in the first Test, South Africa found themselves in deep trouble at 97-5 after two rain-affected days at St George’s Park. With Australia firmly in control, another defeat loomed.

But captain Temba Bavuma had other ideas. His magnificent 179 off 334 balls laid the foundation for an extraordinary turnaround, with Marco Jansen (85) and Simon Harmer (82) helping the Proteas recover to 425-9 declared.

Then came the bowling masterclass. Jansen produced his very best and was well supported by the return of Kagiso Rabada, who looked every bit the Test spearhead South Africa had missed. They dismantled Australia for 99 and even the loss of Anrich Nortje to injury could not derail the hosts.

The Australians were forced to follow on, but the drama was far from over. Travis Head’s century, stubborn resistance from Scott Boland and the ever-present threat of rain ensured the contest remained alive deep into the final day.

Yet the Proteas refused to be denied, eventually sealing an innings-and-31-run victory to level the series and set up a mouth-watering decider at Newlands.

It was everything that makes the longest format so special. The momentum swings, individual brilliance, patience and sheer determination provided the kind of theatre that no other format can quite replicate.

There was Bavuma turning his back, unable to watch as Matthew Breetzke juggled a crucial catch, Rabada clocking in a shade under 155km/h, Jansen curating cover drives to perfection, Wiaan Mulder’s medium-pace wizardry and Simon Harmer pulling off a spectacular one-handed screamer.

And yet, with Test attendances dwindling, one has to wonder what more the Proteas must do to convince supporters to turn up. Performances like these deserve more than applause from a couch.

There is no substitute for experiencing Test cricket from the stands, where the tension builds with every delivery and a single moment can change the course of a match.

Of course, ticket prices, scheduling (as forewarned by Daryll Cullinan) and other factors play their part in keeping spectators away.

But the Proteas gave supporters something worth watching, and there can be few better occasions to show their appreciation than a series decider against Australia at Newlands.

Photo: X/@ProteasMenCSA