England Take Charge Despite South Africa’s Early Resistance

England seized control of the one-off Test against South Africa after a dramatic evening session where the hosts collapsed, losing their last seven wickets for just 44 runs. South Africa, who had reached 237-3 in Bloemfontein looked set for a competitive total before lightning interrupted play and shifted momentum. England’s seamers exploited the new ball under dark skies, bowling out South Africa for 281 and securing a 114-run first-innings lead.

Marizanne Kapp anchored South Africa’s innings with a fluent 57 while Sune Luus battled for a gritty 56. However, debutant Ryana MacDonald-Gay broke the crucial partnership by bowling Kapp just before the weather delay. After play resumed, MacDonald-Gay dismissed Nadine de Klerk for a duck. Lauren Filer removed Luus and Lauren Bell cleaned up the lower order with figures of 4-49.

South Africa’s early resistance including a 92-run stand between Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen, eventually crumbled under England’s relentless bowling. England extended their advantage to 145, reaching 31-1 at stumps. Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight steadied the innings after Maia Bouchier fell for a duck. Despite solid partnerships from South Africa’s top order earlier in the day, England’s bowlers exposed the fragile middle and lower order under pressure.

England’s spinners and wicketkeeper Amy Jones also played vital roles. Sophie Ecclestone maintained remarkable control, conceding just 40 runs in 25 overs and claiming the key wicket of Wolvaardt, who looked unlucky to be given out lbw. Jones produced sharp work behind the stumps catching Kapp and De Klerk which destabilized the Proteas further.

With the pitch showing signs of wear and rain expected on day four, England will likely accelerate their scoring to secure their first Test win since 2014. Their healthy lead places them in a dominant position heading into the final stages.