It was a run-fest of the opening day of the New Year Test between the Proteas and Pakistan at Newlands.
Independent Media Sport’s Zaahier Adams picks five Plays of the Day.
Ball
It didn’t take a wicket but it certainly deserved one. Mohammad Abbas’ very first ball of the match was a perfect delivery that struck Aiden Markram on the pads. It would have hit the top of off, but because the umpire’s original decision had been not out, Markram survived on Umpire’s Call.
Ryan Rickelton’s driving licence
Every one of Rickelton’s cover drives was out of the top draw. The left-hander waited until the ball came on to the bat before leaning into the shot. He did not try to over hit it and simply punched it elegantly down the ground.
Toss
Temba Bavuma calling correctly had already had a major impact on the game for the Proteas have taken full advantage of the excellent batting conditions. Bar the little mishap prior to the lunch when the Proteas lost three quick wickets, Rickelton and Bavuma ensured it was the home team’s day with a record fourth-wicket partnership against Pakistan.
Ouch!
Pakistan’s day went from bad to worse when in-form opener Saim Ayub twisted his ankle whilst chasing a ball down to the boundary. Ayub went down in a heap of pain with the grimace on his face telling the entire story. Ayub was rushed to hospital for a scan and Pakistan will be holding thumbs he is able to recover in order for him to have a bat.
Newlands’ applause
There is nothing in South Africa like a first day New Year’s crowd at Newlands. Although there were a few empty seats on the Railway Stand despite it officially being sold out, but the crowd stood up in unison to vociferously applaud both Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma’s centuries. Bavuma’s was particularly special as they acknowledged the skipper’s emotional celebration.