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Alastair Cook leads England fightback

By , Editor-in-chief
Alastair Cook gets a half-century as the tourists reduce the deficit to 337 runs on the second day of the fourth Test between South Africa and England.

Alastair Cook passed his first 50 of the series as England ended day two of the fourth Test with South Africa on 138-2.

Alastair Cook and ickle Joe Root on day two of the fourth Test between South Africa and England on January 23, 2016© Getty Images

The captain hit 67* during a productive third-wicket stand with Joe Root (31*) to reduce the deficit to 337 runs.

Earlier, the home side were bowled out for 445 after Quinton de Kock earned his maiden Test century in style, taking an unbeaten 129 from 128 balls, including 17 fours and two sixes.

AB de Villiers and Quinton de Kock on day two of the fourth Test between South Africa and England on January 23, 2016© Getty Images

England's top-order fell quickly, as Alex Hales went for just 15 from 14 balls, taking his total to 135 runs across the seven innings of the series. Nick Compton was next off the field, falling lbw from a low delivery after 19 from 52 balls.

Cook's stand at the crease leaves him just 50 runs short of becoming the first Englishman to notch up 10,000 Test runs.

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England batsman Alex Hales leaves the field after his 94 during the 2nd NatWest series T20 match between England and Australia at Emirates Durham on August 31, 2013
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Read more about Alastair Cook Joe Root Quinton de Kock Alex Hales Nick Compton Cricket