Sport

Black Caps dominant, Ravindra scores double ton

20:08 pm on 5 February 2024

Rachin Ravindra scored his first test double century against South Africa at Bay Oval. Photo: Photosport

The Black Caps are in firm control of the first test against South Africa in Mount Maunganui.

After posting 511 in their first innings, New Zealand have the Proteas reeling at 80/4 at stumps on day two.

Kyle Jameison struck twice inside the first ten overs with Tim Southee and Mitch Santner each claiming late wickets to leave South Africa in serious strife.

Still trailing by 431 runs, the tourists need a miracle to avoid a follow on tomorrow.

After a solid start, Jameison removed skipper Neil Band for four and then had Raynard van Tonder trapped in front for a duck.

Having produced just one with the bat, Devon Conway pulled off a superb catch to dismiss Edward Moore off the bowling of Matt Henry.

Santner capped the day by castling Zubayr Hamza for 22.

Earlier in the day, Rachin Ravindra scored a maiden double century in just his fourth test match.

Starting the day on 118, Ravindra notched 200 runs off 341 balls early on in the second session of play.

Stuck in the 190's for more than 10 overs and seeing two of his teammates dismissed, Ravindra kept his cool, cutting a wide delivery through square to bring up the miletone.

A Ravindra boundary brought up the 400 for the Black Caps shortly before tea.

After scoring his 30th test century yesterday, skipper Kane Williamson added just six runs to his tally before he skied one to mid on to depart for 118.

Ravindra was eventually dismissed for 240 - becoming the 19th New Zealand men's batter to make a double century, posting the 12th highest score by a Black Cap.

He faced 366 deliveries in his nine hour stay at the crease.

In his three previous tests Ravindra's highest score was 18 not out.

Sitting at the top of the list is former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum - the only player to make a triple century, at 302.