South Africa vs New Zealand 2017: 3rd Test, Day 4, 5 Talking Points

#1 South Africa's middle order woes

Duminy and Amla have had a torrid time of late

South Africa are having a tough time managing their middle order batsmen in the absence of AB de Villiers. While just a few months ago his absence did not seem to affect the team much, Duminy's poor returns combined with Amla loss of form has affected the team.

Today, they were held back by some really poor shots from their middle order batsmen. None of them displayed the composure and doggedness expected in such situations apart from the skipper.

Bavuma seemed in a hurry, Amla wafted at a short and wide delivery and Duminy was glad to leave a ball that came straight at the stumps. If Faf du Plessis and de Kock can't put up a real fight tomorrow, South Africa would have spoiled an easy chance to win the series.