Captain Temba Bavuma and opener Tony de Zorzi led a solid batting effort as South Africa reached 344 for eight on the rain-affected second day of their first Test against West Indies in Trinidad. First, after only 15 overs and two rain breaks could be bowled on a day one that was washed out early by heavy showers – Bavuma’s resolute 86 and de Zorzi’s dynamic 78 were critical contributions in brittle conditions.
Little assistance for bowlers and a two-paced nature of the pitch meant that runs were difficult to come by, but Bavuma too had shown better patience in grinding it out as compared to de Zorzi. West Indies’ best bowler was spinner Jomel Warrican with three for 66. His departures, two of them in the over preceding stumps and one lbw off consecutive balls on Sunday [April 22] afternoon gave West Indies a brief chance to bowl South Africa out for under 400.
Given the flat nature of the track, Warrican said discipline was key to their success and to finish with seven wickets after bowling in such heat warranted special mention. Kemar Roach came back from a knee doubtlessly, also took two wickets and so did Jayden Seales. It ensured South Africa scored only 90 off the day, with Dinesh Chandimal’s dominance and Pradeep’s effort early in the morning and then when he bowled with the second new-ball.
Kyle Verrynne (39) and Wiaan Mulder then showed more resistance, putting on 57 together until Warrican took two wickets in consecutive deliveries to have both men out.