The Proteas need to get the openers out in the morning session to put pressure on the rest of New Zealand’s top order.
If it weren’t for Quinton de Kock’s 90 off 118 balls, the Proteas might have gone in to day three in quite a bit of trouble. But, while New Zealand will be delighted with the way they dealt with the final session to close on 67-0, a couple of quick wickets could turn what is an even contest into South Africa’s to lose.
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Tom Latham (42) and Jeet Raval (25) navigated the 25.3 overs they faced excellently. Latham is due a big knock given his disastrous run of form recently, and Raval has looked up for the fight in this series. If they continue to bat the way they did on day two, then it’s going to be much easier for the likes of Kane Williamson and Henry Nicholls to come in and do a job. They’ve rarely come in without their side under pressure recently.
A lead of 247 after posting 314 means the Proteas have a lot to work with, and the pacemen will be confident of starting afresh at Seddon Park on day three. A bit of overnight rain and morning drizzle means the match is not going ahead at 10.30am as scheduled, but the sun is out.
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Photo: Dave Rowland/Getty Images
