South Africa build comfortable lead

WELLINGTON: A dominant South Africa built up a comfortable lead of 222-2 at tea on the second day of the rain-disrupted third Test as the New Zealand bowlers struggled in blustery conditions on Saturday.

Alviro Petersen moved to 86 not out with JP Duminy on 66 in an unbroken 116-run stand for the third wicket.

Saturday's morning session was again washed out and further rain was forecast for later in the day as the tourists targeted a large total with the aim of bowling New Zealand out twice in the abbreviated Test.

Only 42 overs were possible on the first day because of rain in the morning and bad light in the afternoon.

Although the conditions in Wellington favour the quick bowlers, New Zealand have been unable to capitalise on the few chances offered by the sturdy Petersen and Duminy.

The only bad news for South Africa was the likelihood they have lost key batsman Hashim Amla for the rest of the match after undergoing emergency surgery on his groin area.

Amla was hit on the first day by an inside edge from a Chris Martin delivery.

He was able to bat on and progressed from 33 to 63 before he was dismissed and then rushed to hospital.

South Africa, who have a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, are without star all-rounder Jacques Kallis for this Test after he was ruled with a stiff neck.

Posted in: