After a dominant first day, South Africa are in the driver’s seat to take the second Test and series against New Zealand, but the match will need to progress at a faster rate for a result to be assured. Join The Roar for live scores of Day 2 from 6pm (AEST).
South Africa would bat first in the second Test, in a winner takes all scenario and they didn’t disappoint yesterday racking up 3 for 283 by the close of play.
All of their batsmen got scores with Quinton De Kock top scoring on 82, with both JP Duminy and Faf Du Plessis not out at stumps.
Neither of New Zealand’s swing kings Tim Southee or Trent Boult managed to take a wicket despite bowling 40 overs between them, and it was down to the inform Neil Wagner to give them some sort of relief as he picked up two.
The pitch is playing very well by the looks of things, although there is no question it could take spin later in the match. On way or another though, you get the feeling this is going to be a long slog for the bowlers.
The good news, after the miserable first Test fiasco is that the weather is expected to stay good right throughout the match, meaning there will be every chance for a result – if the pitch allows it that is with wickets hard to come by thus far.
Day 2 Prediction
South Africa will need to get aggressive today, and you feel they will with the series on the line. The pitch is playing very true, and therefore they are going to need a lot of time to knock over New Zealand.
While they can afford to give up a small first innings lead, given the Kiwis have to bat last more than likely on Day 5, they will want to bat about half the day and pile up the runs, before unleashing Dale Steyn on their top order once again.
And it’s hard to see it going any other way. The saving factor for New Zealand will be the Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson factor, who must be not out at the end of Day 2 if they are to not only stay in the contest, but be a chance down the line of taking out the match.
Be sure to join The Roar for live scores of Day 2 from 6pm (AEST) and don’t forget to add your own comments in the section below.
Follow Scott on Twitter @sk_pryde