Twitter reactions: William O’Rourke’s fifer outshines David Bedingham’s ton as New Zealand dominates Day 3 of 2nd Test against South Africa

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The Seddon Park in Hamilton witnessed intense cricketing action on Day 3 of the second Test between New Zealand and South Africa. Despite a magnificent century from Proteas’ David Bedingham, the day belonged to the Blackcaps, with William O’Rourke‘s exceptional fifer leading the charge. As the dust settles, New Zealand finds itself in a dominant position, needing only 227 runs to secure victory with nine wickets in hand.

South Africa’s struggle and David Bedingham’s brilliance​

Entering Day 3 after bundling out New Zealand for a modest 211, South Africa faced early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Bedingham emerged as the saving grace for the visitors, playing a sensational innings and reaching a well-deserved century. His 110 runs kept South Africa in the contest, providing a glimmer of hope. Unfortunately, Bedingham’s departure marked a turning point, and the only other resistance came from Keegan Petersen, who contributed 43 runs. South Africa concluded their second innings with a total of 235, setting New Zealand a target of 266 for victory.

William O’Rourke’s dominance with the ball​

In a bowling masterclass, O’Rourke showcased his prowess, bagging an impressive five-wicket haul. His ability to disrupt the South African batting lineup prevented them from settling in, turning the tide in favour of the home side. Glenn Phillips also played a crucial role, chipping in with two vital wickets. The disciplined bowling performance set the stage for New Zealand’s pursuit of the target.

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Tom Latham and Devon Conway provide New Zealand a promising start​

Chasing 266 for victory, New Zealand made a promising start with openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway forming a cautious partnership of 40 runs. However, the visitors managed to break through, dismissing Conway, and the day concluded with New Zealand at 40/1. The stage is set for an intriguing Day 4, where South Africa will look to stage a comeback by securing early dismissals.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:​

There’s something about William O’Rourke’s eyes just like with his pace & bounce. All very penetrating and impactful #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/MJeNxRXtJL

— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) February 14, 2024

22 years old William O’Rourke never picked up more than 3 wickets in an inning in his First Class career(15 Games)…

He made his debut in this Test & bettered his best FC performance in both innings by picking 4 & 5 wickets…#CricketTwitter#NZvSA pic.twitter.com/taS1N1DiHk

— Abhishek AB (@ABsay_ek) February 15, 2024

An incredible catch by Glenn Phillips as he takes the wicket of Petersen @BLACKCAPS v South Africa: 2nd Test | LIVE on DUKE and TVNZ+ pic.twitter.com/zTOYDW3Bq7

— TVNZ+ (@TVNZ) February 15, 2024

David Beddingham played an absolute gem of a knock to bring up his maiden test match century for SA

Skipping the SA20 auction to prioritize test cricket is really doing him well.

DESERVED CENTURY
WHAT A PLAYER HE IS#CricketTwitter #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/S8Ap4hDzib

— Lawrence Bailey (@LawrenceBailey0) February 15, 2024

David Bedingham the next Michael Hussey of test cricket.

An outstanding player.#NZvSA #SAvNZpic.twitter.com/NxyJhXtWv5

— Abdullah Neaz (@Neaz__Abdullah) February 15, 2024

What a knock from David Bedingham Maiden test hundred at a crucial time for South Africa #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/9IiI9Nq5DV

— Kass Naidoo (@KassNaidoo) February 15, 2024

David Bedingham lonely warrior!
Maiden Century away from home.
He should play for South Africa in all the formats.#NZvSA

— Lala Sampath (@LalaSampath) February 15, 2024

Okish day for the Proteas. Collapsing from 204/4 to 235 all out got NZ into the Test. Some poor shots in that collapse, but Beddingham doesnt look like an impostor at Test level. Piedt key to a Test victory. Interesting to see how NZ strategise against him. #NZvSA

— Ryan Vrede (@Ryan_Vrede) February 15, 2024

Day 4 is gonna be insane it’s anyone’s game to win can’t wait!! #NZvSA

— Aaron (@BlizzardKing_) February 15, 2024

What an exceptional debut for him in Test cricket, securing nine wickets in his inaugural match.#NZvSA #testcricket #icc #cricket pic.twitter.com/gxpTnK4k5T

— Helvin Cardoz (@CardozHelvin) February 15, 2024

Conway Again #NZvsSA #NZvSA

— Tradancyog (@TradancyOG) February 15, 2024

Awful last session for South AfricaAT Tea they had big chance to bat New Zealand out the Test Match AND cause a BIG Shock BUT they collapsed and NZ chasing 267 end Day 3 on 40-1Cracking Test Match #NZvSA

— BCFC1875 (@YouBearsssssss) February 15, 2024

Devon Conway's poor run of form continues. Perfect finish to the day for South Africa. Dane Piedt the key tomorrow, it promises to be a cracking finish to this Test.#NZvSA

— CricBlog ✍ (@cric_blog) February 15, 2024

William O'Rourke picking up 5fer in his debut match for NZ
Total tally of 9 wickets in his first match.
Another star bowler in making from NZ
#NZvSA #CricketTwitter

— Abhijeet Andansare (@ImAbhijeet17) February 15, 2024

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