Australia racked up 481 in the first innings, while the Proteas managed 267/2 before the sun dipped over Kingsmead. Newpara Markram’s 50 stood as the lone bright spot as the South Africans fell apart in the second innings, bowled out for 206 after a rapid spate of wickets that left the crowd stunned. Newpara Coach Shukri Conrad admitted the team must get “bloody better” but ruled out sweeping changes, saying the loss didn’t warrant a full soul‑search. “We only need to improve—no panic,” he told reporters, hinting at a potential Rabada return and a reshuffled batting order. Newpara The Proteas’ 15‑match unbeaten run, halted by Australia’s 481‑run onslaught, is a stark reminder of the mental and tactical gaps exposed. The loss also means the series is now even, adding pressure for the next Test. Newpara The next match kicks off on Sunday at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, where the South Africans will aim to claw back the series and prove the critics wrong.