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By Richard Sydenham
LONDON Aug 16 (Reuters) – A battling half-century from JP
Duminy and a test best 46 not out from tailender Vernon
Philander led South Africa’s fightback as they closed on 262 for
seven on the first day of the third and final test on Thursday.
Play ended early due to bad light and a power cut. Three of
the four floodlights were functioning when the players left the
field with 14 balls left. Dale Steyn was also unbeaten, on 21.
England must win the match at Lord’s to square the series
and retain their number one status in the world rankings. South
Africa will leapfrog them with a draw or win.
“Things didn’t go our way in the morning, but we are pretty
happy with sessions two and three,” Duminy told reporters.
“England are more on top than we are but we are happy with
the fighting spirit that we showed.
“We (he and Philander) tried to build a partnership as we
consider ourselves the engine room in the team, when we lose
early wickets. Vernon is batting exceptionally well… He has
once again showed his potential.
“We would like to get to 300 if we can. Anything above that
would be a bonus.”
Continued…
