On Thursday, South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma and opener Tony de Zorzi played crucial innings, guiding their team to a solid first innings total of 344 for eight by the close of the rain-affected second day of the first Test against the West Indies in Trinidad.
Beginning the day at 45 for one, following a truncated first day due to heavy showers, Bavuma's determined 86 and de Zorzi's more aggressive 78 were key in South Africa's innings. The pitch, offering little assistance to bowlers while being two-paced, made scoring challenging.
Jomel Warrican stood out among the West Indies bowlers, claiming three for 66, including two wickets in quick succession during the final half-hour to help his team limit South Africa to under 400 runs.
Veteran seamer Kemar Roach, returning after a knee injury, and opening bowler Jayden Seales each took two wickets. They made crucial breakthroughs in the morning and later used the second new ball to restrict South Africa's progress.
Despite the West Indies' efforts, South Africa will be disappointed with the manner of some dismissals, particularly the top-scorers. De Zorzi, who was approaching a maiden Test century, was out inexplicably attempting a reverse sweep just before lunch, giving a catch to Kavem Hodge at first slip. His 78 came off 148 balls and included seven fours and two sixes, both hit in the first over from spinner Gudakesh Motie.
Bavuma, who appeared set for a third Test century, was dismissed lbw by Seales after missing a full toss. Bavuma's innings, characterised by seven fours and one six off 182 balls, highlighted his desire to spend time at the crease in South Africa's first Test since January.
David Bedingham, who scored 29, was caught by debutant Keacy Carty off a pull shot from Seales. Ryan Rickelton fell lbw to Roach as the second new ball was introduced.
A 57-run partnership between Kyle Verrynne and Wiaan Mulder was broken when Warrican took both Verrynne and Keshav Maharaj in quick succession, putting him on a hat-trick.