Rabada shields Proteas' iffy toss call and shaky stroke-makers: 'Not getting out on purpose'

Bowling spearhead Kagiso Rabada defended the Proteas' controversial decision to bat first in the second Test against England at Old Trafford, pointing out that the dry surface - along with two frontline spinners - necessitated such a course of action.

However, under initially cloudy skies, the hosts - with the evergreen duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad rampant - gained significant assistance and bowled South Africa out for a paltry 151 in just 53.1 overs.

Given how match-winningly effective Rabada and co were at Lord's last week, skipper Dean Elgar's call was questionable.

Not that the strapping quick was in a mood to debate it much.

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"Generally, if you're playing two spinners, you want to bat first," said Rabada.

"As you saw, the wicket is becoming drier by the minute. It’s quite slow. You saw Simon was in the game with his second ball already.

"We're playing two spinners for a reason. It's quite dry out there, it is what it is."

To be honest, making too much of the toss runs the risk of deflecting attention away from what are very legitimate questions over the potency of the Proteas' batting order.

While Anderson and Broad were rightly lauded for their showing, application is also a problem, exemplified by Aiden Markram's dismissal off a mistimed pull after he looked very comfortable.

Rabada though was reluctant to pronounce anything resembling judgement as he believes it's counterproductive.

Ironically, he top-scored from No 8 with a highly competent 36.

"Our batters know what they have to do, none of them are getting out on purpose," said Rabada.

"There's quality in our lineup, but it's a young one. It’s about gaining experience, they