South Africa v New Zealand, 2nd Test, Centurion, Day 3 - The New Zealand pacers set jitters, but still, South Africa are in a strong position

New Zealnd’s first innings met a sad end. Except Kane Williamson, none of the batsmen could handle the South African bowlers well. South Africa conceded a lead of 267 runs and didn’t enforce the follow on. South Africa’s second innings was made tougher by some high profile fast and swing bowling by the New Zealand pace bowlers.

Trent Boult and Tim Southee didn’t waste the new ball and kept on delivering the fresh cherry on a fullish length in and outside off. A fullish length made let the ball move prodigiously and extra bit of pace, helped to kiss the edge quickly and fly towards the slip at a catchable height. In no time, the cream of South African top order was removed by Boult and Southee.

Their display with the new ball was a joy to watch and helped a lot to lessen the stress of last night’s CCU duty. Quinton de Kock, aided by luck and some loose bowling, switched to fourth gear from the word go and went for the counter attack, but his stay was cut short by an absolute snoter from Doug Bracewell – it bounced from a length and transformed De Kock into a bow, kissed his handle and flew towards the slip.

The adventurous stroke - play doesn’t reap a rich harvest all time in Test cricket. You need to mix caution with aggression.

Then there was Neil Wagner. I mean, it’s a pity, he doesn’t get the accolade he deserves. At present, he is one of the dangerous pace bowlers in Test cricket and one of the toughest customer to handle while he is bowling from round the wicket.

The dismissal of Stiaan van Zyl made it a productive day for the Kiwis, but South Africa are still leading by 372 runs, the best chase at Centurion is 251, whereas, the best chase in all the venues is 340.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar