South Africa vs New Zealand 2017: 2nd Test, Day 1, 5 talking points

Modified Mar 16, 2017 13:11 IST

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 16: Henry Nicholls of New Zealand celebrates his maiden test century while Kagiso Rabada of South Africa looks on during day one of the Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at Basin Reserve on March 16, 2017 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images) — Nicholls slammed his maiden Test hundred to put New Zealand ahead

#2 Nicholls slams maiden ton

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 16: BJ Watling and Henry Nicholls of New Zealand leave the field for tea during day one of the Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at Basin Reserve on March 16, 2017 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images) — BJ Watling and Henry Nicholls put on 116 for the sixth wicket

Just when New Zealand appeared to be on the back foot, Henry Nicholls stepped up and played a gutsy knock in the company of BJ Watling. The southpaw showed exceptional judgement outside his off-stump and negotiated the South African seamers with aplomb.

He never let Maharaj settle into a rhythm against him and milked him for runs. Morne Morkel was taken out of the attack as Nicholls targeted his widish deliveries. A superb 116 run stand for the sixth wicket between Nicholls and Watling gave the Kiwis an advantage on Day 1.

JP Duminy eventually found the breakthrough when he had Nicholls bowled while he tried to step out. But he had notched up a fighting maiden hundred by then and swerved the day in New Zealand's direction.

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Edited by Staff Editor