Black Cap Glenn Phillips takes stunner to spark South African collapse
Thursday, 15 February 2024
Glenn Phillips took a stunning one-handed catch as the Black Caps broke a threatening partnership in the second cricket test against South Africa at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
The Proteas had made their way to 202-4 just after tea on day three on Thursday, with David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen looking assured at the crease, and their lead at 233.
That was Petersen tried to cut a delivery from New Zealand seamer Matt Henry.
But instead of profiting from the shot, he was sent on his way, as Phillips dived quickly and low to his left.
Petersen had to depart for 43, but Bedingham brought up his maiden test century shortly afterwards.
Phillips then struck with the ball, removing new batter Ruan de Swardt, to leave South Africa 213-6, leading by 244.
He also accounted for Dane Piedt, sharply caught by Tim Southee, as South Africa lost their last six wickets for the addition of just 33 runs.
Will O’Rourke finished with a five-wicket bag in his debut test, taking 5-34 to go with his 4-59 in the first innings.
His match figures of 9-93 were the best by a New Zealand debutant in test history.
The Black Caps will need to produce a record chase at Seddon Park if they are to win and claim their first series win over South Africa, needing 267 in a little over two days.
The existing record of 210 was set by Australia in 2000.
The Black Caps’ overall record chase was of 324, against Pakistan in Christchurch in 1994.