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By Richard Sydenham
LONDON Aug 20 (Reuters) – South Africa replaced England at
the top of the world test rankings on Monday after defeating the
home side by 51 runs at Lord’s to win their three-test series
2-0.
England, set a record 346 for victory, were dismissed for
294 after some plucky counter-attacking by Matt Prior (73),
Jonny Bairstow (54), Graeme Swann (41) and Stuart Broad (37).
Jonathan Trott also chipped in with 63 and for a time it
looked like England could pull off a miracle but ultimately the
target was just too high.
The end of the match and the series was sealed when last man
Steven Finn was caught by second slip Jacques Kallis off Vernon
Philander, who finished with two wickets in two balls for
figures of five for 30. Philander had also played two vital
innings in the match of 61 and 35.
“South Africa definitely played the better over the course
of the three tests,” England captain Andrew Strauss said.
“This match was how I envisaged all three games going – hard
fought and small margins being the difference.
“Prior and Swann played incredibly well and it was during
their partnership when I thought a win was getting into the
realms of possibility, But I can’t fault the hunger or desire of
our guys. South Africa were just a bit too good and they deserve
all the credit they get.”
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