Lesego Senokwane, Jean du Plessis and Sinethemba Qeshile scored half-centuries for an SA Invitational XI on day one of their four-day match against the England Lions in Cape Town.

The hosts reached stumps on 285-8 after winning the toss and batting first at the Western Province Cricket Club.

Opener Senokwane led the way with 80 off 144 balls (11 fours) and was well supported by Du Plessis (50 off 91 balls; three fours, two sixes) and wicketkeeper Qeshile (73 off 131 balls; nine fours, two sixes).

However, the hosts began on the back foot by losing Jordan Hermann with the first ball of the match to Tom Lawes (2-38), with Tshepang Dithole (16) departing soon after.

Senokwane and Du Plessis then rebuilt with a 120-run third-wicket stand, before being dismissed in quick succession.

Andile Mogakane (22) and Ruan de Swardt (two) also lost their wickets before 200 was reached.

However, Qeshile recorded a pivotal half-century, and together with Richard Seletswane (30*) ensured the SA Invitational XI ended the day in a satisfactory position.

Zaman Akhter was England’s best bowler with 3-51.

Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images