LONDON: Hashim Amla performed magnificently to record an innings of 121 on the fourth day of the third Test against England at Lord’s on Sunday, giving his South African team a chance at victory on the fifth and final day.
While no other South African managed to reach 50, the Proteas still managed a total of 351 all out after tea, leaving England to face a tricky few overs from the visitors’ fast bowlers.
Vernon Philander ended the day in a way England would rather have avoided, removing both openers, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook, for a pittance.
It was left to Jonathan Trott and Ian Bell to weather the remainder of the day, and they did so with the sole intention of preserving their wickets, rather than going for runs, a task that they will leave for Monday.
Winning the match will be a tough ask, however, as they still require 3XX runs for a victory that they need if they are to remain the number one Test team in the world. The Proteas’ will take that spot from England if they win or draw the match. (Agencies)