LONDON: Jonathan Bairstow’s 95 helped take hosts England to 315 all out on the third day of the third Test against South Africa at Lord’s, just six runs ahead of South Africa’s first innings score, to leave the match evenly balanced.
The Proteas managed to reach 145/3 at the close of play.
South Africa, 1-0 up in the three-match series, only have to avoid defeat at Lord’s to replace England as the world’s top-ranked Test side.
The recalled Bairstow had the consolation of posting a Test-best 95 after coming in when England had slumped to 54 for four.
The Yorkshireman resumed Saturday on 72 not out, with England then 208 for five.
Vernon Philander struck with the very first delivery with the new ball as Matt Prior, on 27, loosely drove at an outswinger and edged to second slip Jacques Kallis.
Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel ended the innings both having taken four wickets each and it was up to England’s bowlers to take quick wickets early on to give them an advantage.
But the Proteas moved to 33/0 at tea, only to lose two wickets by the time they made 50 runs. (AFP)
