An unbroken 219-run stand between Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra spearheaded a fruitful opening day for New Zealand.

Neil Brand took charge of the new-look, makeshift Proteas side and opted to bowl first. Initially, the decision paid dividends, as Tshepo Moreki trapped Devon Conway LBW on the very first delivery he bowled.

SA got off to a promising start, as Dane Paterson brought forth a second wicket for the visitors. Tom Latham edged to wicketkeeper Clyde Fortuin, and it was all on Williamson and Ravindra to start the rebuilding job.

The second session was wicketless for SA, while both batters confidently consolidated against a dogged spell from a very inexperienced attack.

Ultimately, they both brought up centuries – it was the 30th for Williamson, and the first for Ravindra. They went from strength to strength in what was a spirited battle of attrition, and NZ are firmly en route to an imposing first-innings score at Mount Maunganui.

Minus a couple of dropped catches, it was a rather decent audition for the South Africans. They now have their backs against the wall, and the primary task will be containing NZ’s progress early tomorrow.

NZ 258/2 in 86 overs (Ravindra 118, Williamson 112)

Photo: CSA