Modest Philander credits team performance

Standard Bank Proteas all-rounder, Vernon Philander, has credited a comprehensive team performance after the opening day of the second Test match against Australia at the Blundstone Arena in Hobart. The masterful display of skill from the new-ball pair of Philander and Kyle Abbott was complemented by another sharp contribution in the field, with acrobatic catches and a direct-hit runout lighting up the mood on an overcast and cold day. Philander refused to take the praise following his 10th-career five-for and his most polished performance on Australian soil, which was an indication of a player full of confidence and back to his best after overcoming a traumatic ankle injury this year. Philander will have an equally important role to play with the bat as the lower-order looks to build on a commanding first-innings lead. Temba Bavuma (38 not out) and Quinton de Kock (28 not out) will lead the response on day two, and although there is heavy rain forecast for most of the day, there is enough time in the match to plan and execute sensibly.