The Proteas will have their work cut out for them on day three of the 1st Test against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui.

South Africa were in deep trouble at stumps on day two on 80/4 and still trail the Black Caps by 431-runs in their first innings.

Rachin Ravindra scored a career-best 240-runs to lead New Zealand to 511 in their first innings.

The Proteas interim captain, Neil Brand, who took 6/119 and scored just 4-runs, said their batters need to dig deep.

“It was a grind, especially it was tough for us,” said Brand.

“We didn't expect anything less – they batted really well, and we gave them a few chances, which didn’t help. But, all-in-all, it was a tough two days of cricket, but I still feel we very much can still do something special here.

“We've got two very good batters in David Bedingham and Keegan Peterson at the crease at the moment. 

“We're only one partnership away from being back in the game - that will be the message. We've played an extra batter, so we need to put it to use on day three.”

South Africa will resume their 1st innings at midnight with David Bedingham unbeaten on 29 and Keegan Petersen on 2 not out.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport