On Day 1 of the second Test in Guyana, a thrilling display of fast bowling resulted in 17 wickets falling, showcasing the pacers' dominance on a lively pitch at Providence Stadium. South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first, but their innings was halted at 160, largely due to Shamar Joseph's incisive bowling performance, which earned him figures of 5 for 33. Partnering with Jayden Seales, who took 3 for 45, they wreaked havoc on the South African lineup, reducing them to 97 for 9 at one stage.
Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma fell victim to Joseph’s skilful seam movement, and despite a brief resistance from Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham, the South African batting order crumbled. A spirited last-wicket partnership of 63 runs between Nandre Burger and Dane Piedt helped push the score to a somewhat respectable total before Joseph dismissed Burger, ending their innings at tea.
In response, the West Indies faced immediate pressure from the South African bowlers. Wiaan Mulder was particularly lethal, claiming four wickets for just 18 runs, including that of captain Kraigg Brathwaite and other key batsmen. Despite Keacy Carty's aggressive batting with a score of 26 and Jason Holder's steady hand at 33 not out, the West Indies found themselves precariously positioned at 97 for 7 at the close of play. As the match unfolds, South Africa leads by 63 runs, setting up an intriguing contest on Day 2.
Brief Scores:
- South Africa: 160 (Dane Piedt 38, David Bedingham 28; Shamar Joseph 5-33, Jayden Seales 3-45)
- West Indies: 97/7 (Jason Holder 33, Keacy Carty 26; Wiaan Mulder 4-18, Nandre Burger 2-32) - South Africa leads by 63 runs