SA vs AUS 2018: Rabada awaits verdict on his send off to Steve Smith

Australia scored 243 in their first innings.

Rabada -Smith had yet another face off on Friday in Port Elizabeth. (Cricket.com.au)

The second Test match between South Africa and Australia started at Port Elizabeth on Friday. The one moment which became the highlight of the day was Kagiso Rabada's send off to Steve Smith. It seems like both teams are still not done sledging over each other and there is much more to follow. The wave of the Warner -  De Kock spat has managed to pass onto the second Test as well. 

Winning the toss, Australia scored  243 batting first and amidst many small battles, one to look forward to was the battle was the battle between Smith and Rabada. Rabada got the better of him on this occasion and dismissed him for just 25. Not only that he even gave him send which has earned him a warning which is pending a decision from the match referees. 

Rabada and Smith brushed shoulders in the aftermath of the Australian captain being given out lbw, and although the contact was minimal, the ICC takes a dim view of any physical contact. Article 42.3.1 of the player's code of conduct cites "making inappropriate and deliberate contact with another player" as a level two offence, which carries a sanction of a fine and either three or four demerit points. 

Rabada has already missed a Test through suspension – at Trent Bridge last July – having accrued four demerit points for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct on multiple occasions. The 22-year-old currently has five points and should he reach eight he will miss the next two Tests and the rest of the series. 

It is hereby understood that the Rabada's action was based on his running towards AB De Villiers to celebrate Smith's wicket who predicted him to dismiss the Australian skipper. 

With the decision still to be revealed the Test match passes onto the second day on March 10 (Saturday). It will be interesting to see with South Africa batting on day 2, if any Australian bowler will give it back to them. 

The Test match currently stands at South Africa still trailing by 204 runs in their first innings when they take the field the second day. 
 

 
 

By Anshuman Roy - 10 Mar, 2018

    Share Via