Page 2 - South Africa vs New Zealand 2017: 1st Test, Day 1

South Africa vs New Zealand 2017: 1st Test, Day 1 - 5 talking points

Modified Mar 08, 2017 11:42 IST

DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 08: Neil Wagner (L) and Jimmy Neesham celebrate the dismissal of Hashim Amla of South Africa during day one of the First Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at University Oval on March 8, 2017 in Dunedin, New Zealand. (Photo by Dianne Manson/Getty Images) — Wagner was on fire for the hosts early on

#4 Hashim Amla's wretched form

DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 08: Hashim Amla of South Africa bats during day one of the First Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at University Oval on March 8, 2017 in Dunedin, New Zealand. (Photo by Dianne Manson/Getty Images) — Amla looked all at sea against a Wagner inswinger

Hashim Amla has been in terrible form for the Proteas in Tests. His 154 in the final Test against Sri Lanka was a face saving innings but it was far from convincing. His returns in the ODIs were poor as well although he has managed to get starts.

Today, walking in at no. 3, Amla tried an expansive drive off Wagner only to leave a huge gap between bat and pad that helped the ball sneak through. His defence has been shoddy and the angled bat is causing more problems than it used to.

In swinging conditions, Amla has become susceptible to seam bowlers and the trend is worrying for South Africa who are already coping with the absence of AB de Villiers in Tests. They will be hoping to see the no. 3 back at his best before the end of this series.

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Edited by Staff Editor