Colin de Grandhomme blasted 57 as New Zealand finished their first innings with a 175-run lead at tea on day four in Hamilton.
New Zealand scored 86 runs in an extended first session. As a result, the hosts were under pressure to up the scoring rate in the second session. They did not disappoint.
De Grandhomme scored 57 runs off 70 deliveries. It was his maiden Test 50, and undoubtedly his most important score for New Zealand to date.
His innings, which included five 4s and two 6s, boosted New Zealand’s run-rate significantly and ultimately saw the hosts increasing the lead to 175 runs in a relatively short period.
Morné Morkel and Kagiso Rabada finished with four wickets apiece. Bowling was hard work for the Proteas on day four, and ultimately it took them more than 162 overs to dismiss New Zealand.
Four sessions remain in this Test match. The Proteas’ chances of winning may have diminished, but a draw still seems likely as rain could result in a further loss of time late on day four and on day five.
SA 314 (1st innings) – Quinton de Kock 90, Faf du Plessis 53, Matt Henry 4-93, Neil Wagner 3-104
NZ 489 (1st innings) – Kane Williamson 176, Jeet Raval 88, Kagiso Rabada 4-122, Morné Morkel 4-100
New Zealand lead by 175 runs
Photo: Dave Rowland/Getty Images
