Play was brought to an early close at the Bull Ring due to bad light with the Knights' score on 291/9.

The seamer, Migael Pretorius, was the top scorer for the Knights with a knock of 73 not out, while Grant Mokoena scored 50, and Farhaan Behardien contributed with 35.

Sisanda Magala was the pick of the Lions bowlers with 5/57 in 14.2 overs.

The Knights captain, Shaun von Berg, told OFM Sport that he is happy with their performance on a green pitch which held a lot of moisture.

“We had a good start. They didn’t bowl well in the first hour and at drink they obviously had a bit of chat.

“They got the ball in better areas and it happened for them.

“The pitch is moist underneath and there is a lot of grass on the deck, so there was a lot of nip throughout the day. The ball was nipping and swinging, so it was quite tough.

“We fought back nicely in the afternoon. Grant scored some runs, I also got a few and Migael and Gerald (Coetzee) also batted nicely.

“We will probably bowl quite early because they only need one wicket. Hopefully, we can expose quite early, take a few quick wickets and try and control the run-rate.

“I think it was actually quite a great day for us and it showed the character of the team.

“Even if we are behind the eight ball, we are still willing to fight back - it doesn’t matter what it takes. I’m very happy with the team and the day.”

Play in Johannesburg is set to resume at 10:00 on Tuesday morning.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport