Despite a good start, West Indies were pushed back on Day 2 against South Africa in the second Test match, at St Lucia. At this stage, another South African wins seems to be a formality.
West Indies got Wiaan Mulder early on Day 2 before Quinton de Kock (96) took over. He added 36 with Keshav Maharaj before Jason Holder got the latter and Kyle Mayers the former, in consecutive overs. South Africa were bowled out for 298, with Mayers (3-28) and Kemar Roach (3-45) taking three wickets each.
The West Indians batting then failed to deliver for the third time in the series. Kraigg Brathwaite was dismissed off the first ball of the innings, to Kagiso Rabada. Kieran Powell and Roston Chase followed, and West Indies slumped to 37/3. Jermaine Blackwood (49) and Shai Hope (43) were the only one to provide resistance.
All five South African bowlers chipped in with wickets, Mulder returning 4-3-1-3. West Indies lost their last four wickets for six to get bowled out for 149, exactly half of South Africa’s total.
West Indies vs South Africa, day 3: What to expect?
South Africa will start their second innings on Day 3 and will look to stretch their innings to 250, which will give them a lead of around 400. A solid start from the openers can pretty much seal things up for them. With three days left, the stage is set for youngsters like Keegan Petersen and Kyle Verreynne to dig deep and play the first major innings of their Test careers.
The West Indian bowlers have to rise above their weight and deliver. They would hope for a similar collapse from South Africa. Roach, Shannon Gabriel, and Jayden Seales will hope to replicate the control displayed by the South African fast bowlers. If they can restrict the target below 300, they can back their batters to replicate the magic they did a few months ago, in Bangladesh. However, they have to handle a much stronger bowling attack.
Key Players
Kemar Roach (West Indies): West Indies will expect Roach to lead the pace attack. He has already picked up three wickets in the first innings and will be expected to deliver more in the second one.
Dean Elgar (South Africa): Captaincy has been easy for Elgar so far. With a strong pace attack at his disposal, he is never out of options on the field. After a gritty 77 in the first innings, he can now bat with more freedom and push West Indies out of the game.
Prediction
South Africa to bat for two and half sessions and set a target around 400 for West Indies to chase.