FINE PARTNERSHIP.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 365, 5 March 1932, Page 10

FINE PARTNERSHIP.

Viljoen and Dalton in Form. N.Z. FIELDING GOOD. (Special to the "Star.”) WELLINGTON, March 5. Weather conditions were nearly perfect for the continuation of the test match at the Basin Reserve to-day. With two wickets down for 78 runs, the South Africans • resumed with Christy and Viljoen, and the pair set about consolidating the position. played great cricket until he was well caught in slips by Dempster off Badcock. With three men dismissed for 133, New Zealand was not shaping badly, the bowling being steady and the fielding, especially that of Badcock, being above standard. Viljoen and Dalton, by superlative batting, completely altered the complexion of the game in a partnership which added 87. Only one chance was given. Viljoen w’as dropped by Dempster at 67 in slips. This youthful African was full of confidence, giving a finished display up to lunch. Later his display fell away badly and he was clean bowled by Page after becoming painfully slow in scoring runs. The New Zealand fielding, with the exception of a couple of dropped catches, was far and away above the standard in the first test. Badcock was' positively brilliant at cover point and saved* at least thirty runs. None of the bowlers put up matchwinning efforts. Dickinson developed plenty of pace but his direction was bad. Allcott was no more than stead)’, with a good length. Cromb kept a nice length, but had no swing. Vivian was slightly troublesome with his variation in pace. At five minutes past three rain caused a temporary suspension and the spectators were disappointed.