Ton-up Thorpe keeps England on course for Test victory

GRAHAM THORPE maintained his prolific level of performance since making a return to the international stage by delivering a crucial century to keep England on course for a ninth successive victory in the fluctuating second Test against South Africa.

Since being recalled from a year out of the game with personal problems, and returning with a glorious century against South Africa at The Oval, he has averaged 57.95.

This time his experience was crucial after the tourists, 88 ahead overnight on 281 for one, lost three wickets early in the morning session which threatened to allow South Africa back into the Test.