Matt Prior satisfied to see off Steyn – Cricket News Update
England wicket-keeper batsman, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/South-Africa-c757’s premier pacer, but was satisfied to see off his threat, while posting a crucial 20th half-century for his side on Day 2 of the opening Test at the Oval.
Prior came to the crease when a pumped up Steyn had dismissed centurion http://www.senore.com/Cricket/JH-Kallis-c1692, leaving the hosts in plenty of trouble at 284 for 6.
The reliable English wicket-keeper dug in hard, resisting the threat of the Proteas’ bowlers while further rescuing the side by scoring a thoughtful 60, which included nine fours. He shared valuable stands with the tail, all of whom chipped in significantly, helping their side post a reasonable 385.
After seeing off a hostile spell from Steyn, Prior hailed the Proteas’ spear head.
"He's a world-class performer, we know that. He's not number one in the world for no reason," said Prior. "But it's a great challenge. You want to challenge yourself against the best in the world.”
"When it was going around this morning, those are the times when you have to look at it and say 'Right, I've got to thrive on this, on this pressure and see if I can get through it. So in a sick kind of way, it's quite enjoyable really," he added.
In reply, the tourists ended the day slightly ahead, posting 86 for the loss http://www.senore.com/Cricket/GC-Smith-c1473 weathered the threat to post 47 and 37 respectively.
Despite failing to grab quick wickets, Prior was content with his side’s position at the close of play.
"They've only gone at about two an over so far and if we come in tomorrow morning and get two or three early wickets we're back in the ascendancy and a very, very strong position in this Test match,” he added.
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