NZ vs SA 2nd Test Day 3 Highlights: Turning points, match analysis, stats and more

Day 3 of the ongoing second Test of the series between New Zealand and South Africa saw the Proteas further maintain their dominance in the clash. Day 2 of the second Test ended with New Zealand bundled out for 211 runs in the first innings after the Proteas had posted 242. 

Coming into Day 3 with a lead of 31 runs, South Africa put in a good performance with the bat in the second innings. Skipper Neil Brand opened the innings with a score of 34 runs, and New Zealand’s bowling attack performed exceptionally well to keep the visitors’ top order quiet.

Clyde Fortuin was sent packing for just three runs, Raynard van Tonder scored just one, and Zubayr Hamza fell prey to Neil Wagner after scoring just 17 runs in 63 deliveries. However, after a subpar showing by the top-order, David Bedingham stabilised the innings for the visitors. 

The 29-year-old scored a brilliant century, adding 110 runs in 141 deliveries, followed by a decent Keegan Petersen knock, who scored 43 runs in 79 deliveries. Both batters helped South Africa post 235 runs on the board in the second innings, giving the Black Caps a target of 267 runs to chase down. 

As for New Zealand, William O’Rourke was once again the highest wicket-taker, with five wickets to his name. Glenn Phillips took two wickets, with Matt Henry, Rachin Ravindra, and Neil Wagner striking once each as well. 

Aiming to chase down the target, New Zealand lost their first wicket early into the second innings. Devon Conway was sent packing for 17 runs in 44 deliveries, and the third day of the clash ended with Tom Latham on the strike for 21 runs. As Day 4 approaches, New Zealand need 227 runs to win the game with nine wickets in hand. 

Here's how X reacted Day 3 of the second Test between NZ and SA: