The nightwatchman faced 154 deliveries, nearly doubling his previous Test best of 21, as Australia continued their fight to save the match at St George’s Park.

Alex Carey was unbeaten on 12 alongside Boland, with the tourists having been forced to follow on after being dismissed for 99 in response to South Africa’s 425-9 declared.

Australia resumed on 156-4 following a rain-delayed start, with Travis Head extending his overnight 87 to 121 before Wiaan Mulder bowled him.

Kagiso Rabada then removed Steve Smith for three, caught by Matthew Breetzke, to reduce Australia to 225-6.

Boland, however, continued to frustrate the Proteas, leaving the hosts needing four wickets in the final session to level the series ahead of the third Test in Cape Town.

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