England dominate day three to take control of first Test in South Africa

By Pascal Lemesre, Football League Editor

Published: December 28 2015 | 20:39

Last updated: December 29 2015 | 14:31

England put themselves in command of the first Test against South Africa with a dominant third day in Durban.

England have opened up a 261-run lead over South Africa in the first Test thanks to a dominant third day's display in Durban.

South Africa started the day 137-4 after some tight English bowling on day two, and they were only able to add 77 more runs before being bowled out.

A celebratory Steven Finn in action on day three of the first Test between South Africa and England on December 28, 2015 © Getty Images

Stuart Broad took the wicket of Temba Bavuma (10) with the second ball of the day before Moeen Ali took three wickets in the morning to match Broad's total of four wickets.

Steven Finn claimed the other two as the Proteas' tail-order collapsed, leaving opener Dean Elgar unbeaten on 118 when they were bowled out.

South Africa's hopes of restricting England in their second innings got off to a good start when Dane Piedt trapped Alastair Cook lbw for just 7, but it went downhill from there for the hosts.

Alastair Cook walks off after being dismissed early during the second innings on day three of the first Test between South Africa and England on December 28, 2015 © Getty Images

They lost star bowler Dale Steyn to injury and dropped several catches in the field as England extended their lead.

Piedt removed the other opener Alex Hales for 26, while Nick Compton (49) fell a run short of another half-century before Joe Root (60) and James Taylor (24) guided England to 172-3 with a lead of 261.