England openers make record stand to thwart South Africa’s ambitions

ENGLAND openers Marcus Trescothick and Andrew Strauss produced a record-breaking stand to thwart South Africa’s ambitions in the second Test.

Resuming 163 behind on 30 without loss the pair chose the third day at Kingsmead to launch an aggressive counter-attack, which left South Africa demoralised by the end of a compelling day.

By the time bad light ended play 11 overs prematurely, England had progressed into an 88-run lead on a commanding 281 for one after a record-breaking opening stand of 273 between Trescothick and Strauss, which has all but ensured England will become the only team in the world to remain unbeaten this year.

For all the milestones they broke, however, it was the dominant nature of their partnership which will have contributed most to England’s survival in this Test - providing they do not suffer another collapse similar to their first innings demise to 139 all out.

Apart from new ball pair Shaun Pollock and Makhaya Ntini, who kept a tight line and length, the rest of the attack were mercilessly treated as England added 56 runs in only seven overs and 107 runs in the morning session.

Steyn, whose spell on the opening day was largely responsible for England’s slump to their lowest first innings total in four years, was hammered out of the attack after conceding 31 runs in three overs while left-arm spinner Nicky Boje suffered similar punishment.

As South Africa became more frustrated, the milestones began to fall with Trescothick driving South African captain Graeme Smith through the covers for four to take England into the lead by mid-afternoon, as both players closed in on memorable centuries.

Somerset left-hander Trescothick won the race to three figures, sweeping Boje for successive boundaries to bring up the milestone in emphatic manner after nearly six hours at the crease.

Strauss’ progress to the same figures was not as eye-catching, but his figures certainly are after claiming his fourth century in only his ninth Test. After finishing unbeaten on 132, Strauss needs only 58 runs more to reach 1,000 runs in only his 17th innings.

For once Strauss’ shot selection was not flawless and he could have been out twice before the close, firstly on 89 when he edged Smith’s first delivery just wide of Jacques Kallis at second slip to sum up South Africa’s day of frustration.

It was a costly error and by the time he was dropped on 125 by wicketkeeper AB de Villiers off Ntini shortly before bad light halted play, tiredness was a big factor in his performance.

Trescothick fell moments later, playing a tired-looking push to Pollock which was taken gratefully by de Villiers and ended an innings, which included two sixes and 20 other boundaries. Mark Butcher lasted 14 balls before the umpires ended England’s memorable day.