Bangladesh stay in hunt as Proteas fail to convert starts on Day 1

In Gqeberha

Despite half-centuries from Dean Elgar, Keegan Petersen, and Temba Bavuma, South Africa failed to convert from substantial starts after Friday's opening day of the second Test against Bangladesh at St. George's Park.

SCORECARD | Proteas v Bangladesh, 2nd Test - Day 1

After opting to bat first in partly overcast weather, the Proteas ended on 278 for 5 at stumps on day one.

All of the South African batters went on to make solid starts but failed to convert and kick on until the end. There were four substantial half-century partnerships, but the Proteas continued to lose wickets at inopportune times.

Elgar and opening partner Sarel Erwee combated the early pressure on an overcast and slow St George's Park wicket as they put on a 52-run first-wicket stand.

Paceman Khaled Ahmed got the breakthrough as Erwee (24) tried to drive and was caught behind in the safe hands of Liton Das.

However, Elgar remained vigilant and was a delight to watch on a ground that he has taken a liking to - averaging nearly 50.

Elgar brought up his 22nd Test half-century and overtook as the highest run-scorer at St George's Park in nine Tests.

The Proteas skipper, who also brought up his third consecutive half-century of the series, shared an 81-run partnership with Petersen.

However, shortly after lunch, Elgar nicked Taijul Islam behind to depart for a well-played 70 off 89 balls (10 fours).

Petersen continued where Elgar left off and went on to bring up his own Test half-century before a short rain delay occurred.

Petersen and Bavuma went on to put a 51-run third-wicket partnership before a frustrated Bangladesh outfit got the much-needed breakthrough.

Islam, who was one of Bangladesh's two changes in the second Test, trapped Petersen LBW, which was