Media colleagues have supported presenter Lesego Pooe after an on-air mistake during the first Test between the Proteas and Australia in Durban.
Pooe was introducing her expert panel during a tea-break segment on the fourth day when she welcomed South African cricketer Khaya Zondo before turning to Fox Cricket commentator Mark Howard.
But, appearing to momentarily forget Howard’s name, she introduced him only as “the Australian man”.
The unexpected description quickly became a viral moment, with cricket supporters in Australia and South Africa sharing the clip on X and TikTok.
Some viewers reacted awkwardly to the exchange, but Howard took the incident in good humour. His fellow Fox Cricket commentators also joined in, repeatedly teasing him about his new nickname during the sessions that followed.
Pooe was also defended by fellow broadcasters, including prominent South African sports presenter Thomas Mlambo. He was among those who highlighted her work ethic and achievements in broadcasting, while reminding viewers that live television mistakes can happen to even the most experienced professionals.
The incident came as the Proteas struggled in the first Test, with Australia securing a heavy victory.
South Africa captain Temba Bavuma described the result as a wake-up call and said the team would need to address several issues before the second Test.
“It is disappointing. It’s not the way you want to start a series, any kind of series, let alone just against a top outfit like Australia,” Bavuma said.
“The emotions are obviously still a little bit high. You probably want that to settle before you get into the conversations but there are obvious things that we could definitely improve on. No one is happy in that change-room, looking at the result that has played out.”
Bavuma said discussions would now take place within the squad and warned that players could lose their places if they failed to perform.
“Going forward, there’s going to be conversations that need to happen. Guys understand that’s just how professional, high-level sport goes. If you’re not delivering the goods and if there is someone else who’s waiting in the wings, they’ll get that opportunity.”
The second Test is due to begin this Sunday.
