Aussie Nostalgia and Net Sessions Ahead of Gqeberha Test
As Australia prepares for the upcoming Test in Gqeberha, the team combines intense net sessions with a historic walk through St George's Park.
As Cameron Green was batting in Gqeberha on Saturday, a sudden noise caused brief concern before revealing itself to be a bird in an adjoining park rather than another injury blow for the angular Australian.
St George’s Park offers a rustic feel and a fascinating walk back in time through a corridor displaying framed front pages from 1970 detailing the Apartheid-era tour cancellations.
Alongside historical photographs and warnings against racism, the venue has played host to local wildlife including a mongoose and a pack of geese observing the visiting side.
Coming off a 214-run victory at Kingsmead Stadium, the Australians have enjoyed a positive atmosphere in the city formerly known as Port Elizabeth.
Saturday's training session saw the squad fine-tuning their preparations in windy conditions, with captain Pat Cummins rolling his arm over and facing extensive throw downs.
Unlike their 2018 tour where low visibility in the lead-up preceded a batting collapse, the current squad has maintained a dedicated schedule from Thursday through Saturday.
With bad weather predicted for Sunday, around 5,000 fans are expected to attend the match, and captain Cummins remains hopeful that the venue's traditional brass band will be out to support them.