CricketZA

Rassie van der Dussen and nightwatchman Anrich Nortje put a stop to any thoughts England had of a quick morning session with a dogged half-century partnership which  helped lift South Africa to 197/7, and the lead to over 300. The lead, which already appears insurmountable will likely balloon past 350 in the next session with the mood and form which Quinton de Kock is in. He is currently at the crease with Vernon Philander. de Kock has already taken a liking to Jofra Archer's pace bowling dispatching him for three sixes and a four. The English will be hoping for a miracle on a ground which  has never seen 300 chased, and has only seen 200 scored by the side batting last once in  the last 10 years.

Kyle Abbot has signed a three-year extension with County side Hampshire, which has effectively ended any hopes of a return to international cricket. Abbott, who a few days ago took 17 wickets in a First Class cricket game, stated he had no regrets about his choice to take a Kolpak contract in 2017. Abbot, who has averaged 60 wickets a season in his three seasons with Hampshire is now tied to the club through to the 2021 season. Abbot: "I am delighted to have signed a new three-year contract with Hampshire. We have a great coaching staff and bunch of players all striving to achieve success for the club, and I look forward to contributing to winning trophies in the coming years." With the threat of Brexit, there probably was an accent for players to make immediate decisions. The England Cricket Board said in an email that should England leave the European Union without a deal by the end of 2019, new Kolpak applications would become void , but they would honour all exis...