Dale Steyn struck an early blow for South Africa when he dismissed England captain Alastair Cook for a duck on a rain-shortened first morning of the first Test at Kingsmead on Saturday.

England were 12 for one at lunch after being sent in to bat. Only 27 minutes of play was possible before rain stopped play.

Steyn, who had not played any cricket since suffering a groin injury on the first day of a series in India on November 5, found his rhythm almost immediately and had Cook caught at second slip by Dean Elgar off the fifth ball of his second over. He did not concede a run in the 3.1 overs he bowled before the stoppage.

England new cap Alex Hales was on 10 not out. He got off the mark with a clip to leg for two off the first ball he faced from Kyle Abbott and looked comfortable at the crease, although the ball he faced against Steyn was the last delivery before the rain.

The start was delayed by half an hour after overnight and early morning rain and it was no surprise when South African captain Hashim Amla decided to bowl in overcast conditions after he won the toss.

Lunch was brought forward to the original noon time when it became obvious there would be a lengthy delay after the stoppage.

South Africa included off-spinner Dane Piedt in their team, with Abbott chosen ahead of fellow seamer Kagiso Rabada.
Source: AFP