England vs South Africa 2017: 2nd Test day 2, 5 talking points

Modified Jul 15, 2017 23:30 IST

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - JULY 15: South Africa bowler Keshav Maharaj celebrates after bowling Jonny Bairstow during day two of the 2nd Investec Test match between England and South Africa at Trent Bridge on July 15, 2017 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) — Maharaj once again highlighted his importance in the side with crucial wickets

#2 Maharaj breaks England's resistance

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - JULY 15: Keshav Maharaj of South Africa celebrates dismissing Ben Stokes of England during day two of the 2nd Investec Test match between England and South Africa at Trent Bridge on July 15, 2017 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) — Maharaj dismissed the mercurial Ben Stokes for a 12 ball duck

Ever since his debut against the Aussies Down Under, Keshav Maharaj has found a way to take big wickets. If it was Steven Smith falling to the seemingly innocuous left-arm spinner on his debut, it was Ben Stokes today. The England all-rounder was dismissed for a 12 ball duck, leaving the lower middle order exposed.

With Bairstow and Ali threatening to build another game changing stand, Maharaj broke through again with the big wicket of Bairstow. The wicket-keeper was undone by a beautifully flighted delivery that beat his defence to smash into the off-stump. The spinner added Dawson to his wicket tally as well, as England collapsed.

Follow IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates, News & Biddings at Sportskeeda. Get the fastest updates on Mega-Auction and cricket news

Edited by Staff Editor