Kagiso Rabada says the Proteas’ bowlers must take advantage of the conditions and wipe out England early on day two. 

After missing out on the Trent Bridge Test, Rabada made his return in the 100th Test at The Oval and ended with figures of 1-32 on Thursday.

This included a magnificent yorker to send debutant batsman Dawid Malan (1) back to the dressing room early.

ALSO READ: KG’s scorching yorker 

Despite England losing their top four for 171 runs, Rabada says the match is in the balance and hopes the attack can use the sporting conditions to make further inroads into England’s lineup.

‘I thought we bowled well today,’ he said after the day’s play.

‘There was a lot on offer, but I don’t think it was a bad wicket for the batsmen. There was a lot of bounce, so a lot of balls went past the edge which might look good, but is ineffective.

‘The game is even, so tomorrow we will need to make an impact.’

Rabada was in awe of Vernon Philander’s masterful bowling spell, which went for an impressive 2-17 in 12 overs, including five testing maidens. The youngster says he is taking tips on the art of swing and seam bowling from his talented teammate.

‘I was watching from mid-wicket in that last session,’ he said of Philander’s spell.

‘I thought he bowled so well. Going off the field I asked him for a few pointers, he is a very skillful bowler, especially in these conditions.

‘He makes it look simple. It’s about trying to find a way to master a few things that he does.’

Philander struggled with a stomach bug throughout the day, but showed signs of improving health towards the close of play.

Alastair Cook (82) and Ben Stokes (21) will resume the innings, which is scheduled to start at 11 am, with extra time being made up throughout the day.

ALSO READ: Cook resists Proteas onslaught

Photo: Philip Brown/Getty Images