Eng v SA 1st Test: 3rd Day

Graeme Smith answered his critics and showed true character during his massive double century as South Africa amassed 594-5 declared. Smith's 277 is the highest individual score by a South African, beating Graeme Pollock, Daryll Cullinan and Gary Kirsten all of whom have passed two hundred and seventy. Smith's batting, reflected his attitude towards cricket, as well as the newly aquired captaincy, showing determination, commitment and maturity. It was the 22-year old Smith, not Gibbs, who on the first day encouraged his opening partner to play sensibly, as Gibbs looked to attack, realising the importance of staying there and seeing it through. Barry Richards, speaking on Channel 4 summed up his character, saying "he's the oldest 22-year old I know." His commitment to his team was shown not only in his concentration and determination to stay at the crease but also through two memorable acts of devotion. Firstly, on reaching his century he pointed to the black armband that he, and the other players were wearing in memory of Jaques Kallis's father. And secondly, after being dismissed, as he walked off the pitch to a standing ovation, a simple kiss of the badge on the helmet displayed his absolute loyalty. While players such as Kallis and Gibbs may have more talent than Smith, he showed that his temperament is second to none, giving one hundred percent for the entire time he was in the middle. He certainly proved his critics, such as Bob Woolmer, that he does deserve his place in the side, and is an ideal captain, leading by example.

Ashley Giles also enjoyed success taking two wickets, firstly that of Gary Kirsten who was caught behind, giving Alec Stewart his 250th Test catch, equalling Alan Knott's record, and also that of Smith, who eventually holed out to James Anderson on the leg-side boundary. Darren Gough took his first Test wicket for two years, as Mark Butcher caught Boeta Dippenaar at mid-wicket.

After the declaration, Trescothick was given an extra life as he was dropped by Dippenaar in the slips off a Shaun Pollock no-ball in the first over. An intriguing battle between Pollock and Ntini, and Trescothick and Vaughan followed, but when tea was taken, England were yet to lose a wicket on 25. Rain then intervened and play was abandoned for the day.

Posted by Kelvin