South Africa took control of the second Test against West Indies on Day 2 at Providence Stadium. Resuming from a precarious 97/7, West Indies managed to eke out a total of 144 thanks to a crucial last-wicket stand between Jason Holder (54*) and Shamar Joseph (25). This gave the Proteas a slender 16-run lead.
South Africa Dominates Day 2
However, South Africa quickly asserted their dominance in the second innings. Kyle Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder shared an unbeaten 84-run partnership, propelling the Proteas to 223/5 at stumps. With a lead of 239 runs, South Africa is in a commanding position heading into Day 3.
South Africa's Bowling Prowess and Solid Start
South Africa's bowlers, led by Mulder (4/32) and Burger (3/49), were instrumental in restricting West Indies to a modest total. Their impressive performance helped the Proteas recover from their first-innings collapse of 160. Determined to make amends, South Africa's openers Aiden Markram (51 off 108) and Tony de Zorzi (39 off 72) provided a solid start, putting on a 79-run partnership. However, West Indies fought back with Jayden Seales dismissing de Zorzi for 39, halting South Africa's momentum.
West Indies Fight Back
Markram continued his good form, reaching his 11th Test half-century. However, his innings was cut short by Gudakesh Motie, who trapped him lbw for 51. Motie then struck again, dismissing captain Temba Bavuma for just four runs. West Indies' momentum continued as Jayden Seales dismissed Tristan Stubbs for 24, catching a catch behind the stumps. Seales then cleaned up David Bedingham for a duck in the very next over, leaving South Africa reeling at 139/5 with a lead of 155 runs.
Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder forge crucial partnership
With South Africa’s middle order under pressure, Kyle Verreynne (50 off 71) and Wiaan Mulder (34 off 66) forged a crucial partnership. Mulder showed his all-round abilities with a determined batting display, while Verreynne anchored the innings with his third Test half-century. The duo batted with resilience, seeing off the West Indian bowlers and taking their team to stumps without further loss. West Indies will need a strong start on Day 3 to prevent South Africa from extending their lead significantly.
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