Philander in double strike against solid West Indies

19 December 2014 11:01

Vernon Philander struck twice in his second spell after the West Indies made a solid start on the third day of the first Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Friday.

The West Indies were 110 for two at lunch in reply to South Africa's 552 for five declared.

Kraigg Brathwaite and Devon Smith saw off South Africa's new ball attack, putting on 72 for the first wicket before Philander dismissed both openers in successive overs.

The right-handed Brathwaite looked solid and well organised from the start but the left-handed Smith survived a confident appeal for leg before wicket by Philander with his score on five in the second over.

Smith was given not out by umpire Billy Bowden. South Africa sought a review. It showed the ball clipping the outside of leg stump and the decision stayed with the umpire.

Smith went on to make 35 before being caught behind off Philander's fourth ball of a second spell. He was given not out by umpire Bowden but Philander immediately asked for a review which showed a faint bottom edge as Smith played a cramped pull shot.

The catch was taken by AB de Villiers, who took over the gloves after regular wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock sprained his right ankle during the warm-up before play. Faf du Plessis was also not on the field, suffering from stomach cramps.

Brathwaite fell for 34 in Philander's next over, edging a low catch to Hashim Amla at first slip.

Philander took two for two in four overs in his second spell.

Source: AFP