South Africa vs England 2017 2nd Test, Day 3: 5 talking points

#3 Faf du Plessis lends stability

Du Plessis added some much-needed experience to the middle-order

The returning skipper showed exactly what South Africa missed at Lord's in the series opener- stability. Not one to back down without a fight, Faf du Plessis faced a verbal attack from James Anderson when he came out to bat. But with grit is in his blood, the Proteas skipper was unperturbed by the barrage of filth from the English.

Well aware that his team was way ahead in the game despite the loss of a couple of quick wickets, Du Plessis ensured he did not get carried away by the situation. He played the ball on merit, looking solid in defence and judgement barely giving England any gap for a channel of attack.

Even as Amla departed, Du Plessis continued to pile on England's misery with a well-made half-century.