South Africa, NZ Test washed out

Published August 24, 2016

DURBAN: South African captain Faf du Plessis and New Zealand coach Mike Hesson both expressed disappointment after the first Test between South Africa and New Zealand was abandoned as a draw due to poor ground conditions on Tuesday.

No play was possible on days three, four and five because of a wet, soft outfield which the umpires decided would be dangerous for players.

No play took place after rain fell during the lunch break on the second day on Saturday, when New Zealand were on 15 for two in reply to South Africa’s first innings total of 263. Rain continued throughout the rest of Saturday and into early Sunday morning.

“We were dying to get out there,” said Du Plessis. “New Zealand were in a spot of bother on a wicket which was giving a lot of assistance.”

Hesson said: “Both teams were very keen to play. But we respect the decision of the umpires.”

The series will now be decided in the second and final Test starting at Centurion on Saturday.

Published in Dawn, August 24th, 2016

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