South Africa vs Australia 2018: 1st Test, Day 4 – 5 things we learnt from the day

#3 Quinton de Kock finally gets back to form

Getting back in form

Even after a fighting stand of 87 between Markram and de Bruyn, South Africa were behind by a long way. A woefully out-of-form Quinton de Kock joined Markram who was looking solid. In his last 15 Test innings, de Kock had a highest score of 43.

However, de Kock came out with a positive intent. He unfurled his array of shots as he counterattacked along with Markram. His cover-drive was exquisite while the shots of the back-foot were very good as well. He used the pace of the bowlers brilliantly as he scored heavily through the point and third-man region. As the innings grew, de Kock grew in confidence. He looked settled and complemented Markram beautifully.

His knock of 81 included 11 boundaries. He looked like his old self once again. Along with Markram, de Kock did give South Africa that ray of hope of pulling off an unlikely win.