The Story:
South Africa was yet again struggling to face the English bowling attack on Day 1 of the 2nd Test at Trent Bridge. Although it would be wrong to term the first day’s play as a complete failure, the Proteas did have a nervous time out in the middle after Faf du Plessis won the toss in his comeback game and decided to bat first.
The opening stand was negligible, as Dean Elgar managed just six runs batting with HG Kuhn before departing with the team total being just 18. Kuhn also was not exceptional, as he failed to convert his start and lost his wicket after making 34.
De Kock and Hashim Amla Stabilize
The unsatisfying start was fortunately backed by a solid show from Quinton de Kock and Hashim Amla who carried the innings ahead in command. South Africa, who are seeking their first victory at Trent Bridge since 1965, dominated the opening two sessions to reach 179-2 at Tea.
But, in the last session, a mini downfall was witnessed. The stand between Amla and De Kock was broken in the 53rd over when the wicket keeper batsman was removed by Broad. A few overs later, Amla was removed in the 59th over of the day at the score of 78 and his dismissal was followed by the quick departure of Faf du Plessis and Temba Bavuma.
However, Vernon Philander (54) took control of the dwindling innings and ensured a convincing finish to the day. Along with Morris, Philander fought back brilliantly in the final session to take Proteas from 235-6 to 306/7 at stumps.
Quinton de Kock Expects The Team Total To Surge
Despite the late failures, Quinton de Kock, who made 68 on day one, feels that the Proteas must use day two to build on their strong position of 309-6.
“It was very up and down today. In the one session it was our session and the next it was England’s, it was back and forth. We went through stages where we played some good cricket, we would have liked to have done better, but unfortunately that is not the nature of the game to have everything that you want,” De Kock commented.
The lower-order played the rescue act after the host swung back the momentum in their favour. Philander (54*) and Chris Morris (23*) added 74 for the seventh-wicket a stand and are currently the biggest hope for the Proteas.
“Tomorrow will be moving day for us. Vernon and Morris have gotten us into a great position, so we will need to capitalise and go forward with that,” he added.
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