Star New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips pulled off an incredible catch to dismiss Keegan Petersen on Day 3 of the second NZ vs SA Test. The hosts faced trouble with a budding partnership between David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen, adding 98 runs for the fifth wicket and appearing set to extend their lead.
During the 60th over bowled by Matt Henry, Petersen fiercely cut a back-of-length delivery without restraint. Phillips, positioned at the gully, swiftly dove to his left like a goalkeeper and secured the ball single-handedly, completing a remarkable catch. Phillips celebrated with a roar, reflecting the significance of the breakthrough.
This spectacular catch initiated a collapse, with South Africa plummeting from 202/4 to 235 all-out, losing their last six wickets for a mere 33 runs. With a slender first-innings lead of 31 runs, New Zealand was tasked with chasing 267 runs to win the second Test and clinch the series 2-0.
However, achieving this target won’t be easy, considering it’s the highest fourth-innings target ever set at Seddon Park in Hamilton. New Zealand lost Devon Conway at stumps, finishing the day at 40/1, requiring 227 more runs to secure victory.
Earlier in the match, South Africa displayed resilience, scoring 242 runs in their first innings after opting to bat. Dane Piedt’s five-wicket haul restricted the home team to 211 runs, giving South Africa a crucial 31-run lead. The Test match is finely balanced, but the visitors must claim wickets early on the fourth morning to challenge New Zealand.
