Notes from the Oval #13

Can New Zealand exploit South Africa's natural conservatism?

Neil Wagner turns the tide by dismissing the well-set Rassie van der Dussen. Photo / Getty Images

This has been a gripping test. It deserves a grandstand finish.

The Black Caps are still behind, no question about that, but after a day where fortunes fluctuated wildly, they have a few things going for them:

• The pitch looks to be getting easier to bat on;

• The forecast is good for the final two days, which should aid the above;

• South Africa’s natural conservatism.

It’s that last point that could be the biggest boon for the hosts, who are looking to expunge a scar on their history and beat South Africa in a series for the first time.