* Philander claims third five-wicket haul in three tests
* South Africa dominate first day of opening test
By Ken Borland
CENTURION, South Africa, Dec 15 (Reuters) – Graeme Smith
scored a half-century but fell late on as South Africa made a
confident reply after dismissing Sri Lanka for 180 on the
opening day of the first test on Thursday.
Seam bowler Vernon Philander claimed five wickets for the
hosts, who reached 90 for one at the close at Centurion.
South Africa captain Smith looked in fine form as he stroked
seven fours in his 61 — his 30th half-century in his 94th test
— but played around a full delivery from Dilhara Fernando to be
trapped lbw. Opening partner Jacques Rudolph was unbeaten on 27.
Sri Lanka’s bowers were steady, but they struggled to obtain
the same assistance the South Africans did, even though the home
attack sprayed the ball around disconcertingly at times.
South Africa’s much-vaunted attack were struggling in
helpful conditions as Thilan Samaraweera and Angelo Mathews
added 65 for the fifth wicket off just 80 balls.
The pair took Sri Lanka to 156 for four before Philander
struck three times in four overs to complete his third
five-wicket haul in three tests.
Continued…
