On Friday the hosts were bowled out for 482 runs after 117.5 overs in the middle.

Hendry Nicholls top-scored for New Zealand with 105 runs, while the wicketkeeper, Tom Blundell scored 96 runs.

The South African-born Neil Wagner contributed with 49 while the Zimbabwean-born Colin de Grandhomme scored 45.

Duanne Olivier was the pick of the Proteas bowlers with 3/100 in 21 overs. Kagiso Rabada and Glenton Stuurman each also conceded more runs than the Proteas managed in their entire first innings.

South Africa's second innings got off to a terrible start with the captain, Dean Elgar and Sarel Erwee, both being dismissed for a duck. To make matters worse, Aidan Markram, managed just 2 runs before losing his wicket.

Temba Bavuma with 22 not out was the only batter to show a bit of fight before stumps were called on day two.

Speaking after the days play, the Proteas coach, Mark Boucher, admitted that they are somewhat stumped regarding the team’s lacklustre performance in all three departments of the game.

“It's been a tough two days and extremely disappointing, especially after the series we had against India.

“I think there was a high expectation from everyone, and we just haven't come out and given the energy that is expected of us.

“As coaches, we'll keep going back and look at how we can best prepare the players for tours. I haven't quite put my finger on it at the moment, but I can see that the energies are way below par, and the results have shown that as well.

“We lost the toss, got behind the eight ball after the first session and we just haven't been able to get back into the game in all three departments. Our batting, bowling and fielding have all been disappointing.”

South Africa will resume their second innings on day three in deep trouble on 34/3.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport