Twitter Reactions: South African batsmen dance to new Zealand's tune on Day 1

New Zealand made inroads in the South African batting lineup when they picked up 8 wickets on a pristine bowling track at Kingsmead in Durban. However, in spite of that, there were a few instances where the specators found ways to cheer in the batting. Hashim Amla and Temba Bavuma made spared South Africa of their blushes when they smashed 53 and 46 respectively. However, the Kiwi bowlers were well in their rhythm when they smashed through records and ensured that they reached a psychological score of 236/8 at the end of the day’s play.

The day began in a terrible manner when rain made a divine intervention and slammed proceedings. Lights were introduced in the first session of play when the ball was seaming all the way on the pitch. Tim Southee and Trent Boult were the major players in the morning session in spite of Southee going wicketless. Boult on the other hand made an impact with the ball with some terrific inswingers and outswingers that eventually saw them dismiss opening pair Stephen Cook and Dean Elgar.

With AB de Villiers out of the side, the reins of captaincy were handed to Faf du Plessis. However, in spite of his presence in the side, JP Duminy was promoted up the batting order, something that raised a few eyebrows. However, in spite of looking solid, a rush of blood saw Duminy throw his wicket as he was snapped up by Neil Wagner. Mitchell Santner also chipped in with two wickets as Doug Bracewell aslo made an impact with the ball after being roped in for the first test.

Also read – SA v NZ 1st Test, Day 1 Review: New Zealand dominate proceedings

However, Temba Bavuma (46) and Quinton de Kock (33) stitched a wonderful partnership amid the ruins of the Proteas batting unit and ensured that they reached the 200-run mark. At stumps, they were at 236/8.

Here is how Twitter reacted:

https://twitter.com/denniscricket_/status/766603712676499457

https://twitter.com/anmol_aleena/status/766581709882155008

https://twitter.com/denniscricket_/status/766598674071769088