ENG vs SA| Anrich Nortje reflects on a tough day for Proteas 

Nortje picked up three wickets for his side in the 1st innings (Twitter)

Centuries from captain Ben Stokes and wicket-keeper batter Ben Foakes strengthened England's position in the second Test as they built a mammoth 241-run lead over South Africa on day two at Old Trafford.

South Africa started the second day with speedster Anrich Nortje removing overnight batters Jonny Bairstow and Zak Crawley in a searing five-over spell of express pace and reverse swing in the first hour of the morning session.

England in the driving seat of the second Test

The pair of Stokes and Foakes forged a much-needed 173-run stand for the sixth wicket that moved the game decisively in England's favour. The hosts recovered from the early loss of Jonny Bairstow in the first session, reaching 415-9 before Stokes declared with the home side having built a mammoth first-innings advantage of 264.

Speaking on another tough day for the Proteas, Nortje said post-lunch session when the ball got older and softer, it became easier for the England batters to settle down and score.

“Once the ball got older one or two things went their way and then they got the momentum on their side and started playing some shots. They played the situation really well," said Anrich Nortje.

Nortje hails English batters

Nortje pointed out that the visiting bowlers were unlucky as the ball went past the edge of the bat on numerous occasions but also acknowledged the way Stokes and Foakes batted to put England in the commanding position.

“Basically in the whole innings the ball missed the edge of the bat and you still felt like you were in (with a chance). They really absorbed the pressure well especially at the start and then slowly but surely built that momentum and that partnership which was key for them. 

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