England’s women cricketers are firmly in the driver’s seat after a dominant second day of the Bloemfontein Test against South Africa. The hosts, who had batted patiently for much of the day, dramatically collapsed in the final session to hand the advantage to the touring side.
Lauren Bell Shines with Four Wickets
The star of the show was undoubtedly Lauren Bell, who claimed impressive figures of four for 49. The young seamer wrapped up the South African tail with her probing away swing, proving too hot to handle for the home side’s lower order.
Bell was ably supported by her new-ball partner Lauren Filer, who sent down some of the most hostile spells ever witnessed in women’s Test cricket. Filer twice struck South African batters on the helmet, softening them up for Bell to work her magic.
South Africa’s Resistance Crumbles
Earlier, Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen had put on a patient 92-run partnership to steady the ship after England’s early inroads. But their hard work was undone in a flash, as the hosts lost their last seven wickets for a mere 44 runs.
We’re disappointed with how we ended our innings. We set it up really well, but myself, Suné or Wolfie [Wolvaardt] had to kick on and get the hundred.
– Marizanne Kapp, South Africa all-rounder
According to a source close to the South African camp, a sense of disappointment pervaded the dressing room after their dramatic collapse. With more resolute batting, they could have gotten much closer to England’s first innings total.
Ecclestone’s Brilliance and Absence of DRS
Sophie Ecclestone, the world’s top-ranked bowler, was at her miserly best. The left-arm spinner sent down nine maidens in her 25 overs, constantly asking questions of the South African batters.
She claimed the crucial scalp of Wolvaardt, albeit in slightly controversial circumstances. The batter was adamant she had got an inside edge, but with no DRS, she had no choice but to trudge off disappointed.
We’re disappointed we were on the wrong side of it, but it goes both ways. That’s cricket. It’s never easy for the umpires out there.
– Marizanne Kapp on the absence of DRS
England in Control Despite Late Wicket
By the close of play, England had extended their lead to 145 runs, although not without a hiccup. First innings centurion Maia Bouchier fell for a duck, edging Ayanda Hlubi behind.
However, Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight saw off the remaining overs without further damage. England will look to build on their lead on day three and put themselves in an impregnable position.
With three days still to play and the pitch starting to show some signs of uneven bounce, England will fancy their chances of forcing a result. South Africa, on the other hand, will need to dig deep and put in an improved batting display to stay alive in this Test.
