Warriors struggle against the Dolphins

In East London the Warriors held on admirably against the Dolphins, who lead the table, as Arno Jacobs batted through the day to end on 135 not out. With only 68 overs possible in the day the Warriors were 287 for 8, still 225 behind on the first innings, when bad light again brought an end to the day. Starting the day at 84 for 3 the Warriors progressed to 223 for 6 and were well on their way to avoid the follow-on, but two quick wickets reduced them 223 for 8. Mario Olivier and Jacobs steadied the sinking ship with an unbroken stand of 64 coming off the final 20 overs of the day. The Warriors still have a bit to do on the final day to salvage a draw.

In Bloemfontein the Lions and the Eagles are heading for a draw unless some inspired captaincy comes to the fore. Nicky Boje, taking 4 for 106, could not stop the Lions from taking a slender first innings lead of 34 thanks to Justin Ontong, leading from the front, scoring 102 as the Lions totalled 375. At 40 for 3 the Eagles looked to be in trouble but Davey Jacobs, unbeaten on 56, and Morne van Wyk (28*) will continue tomorrow from 135 for 3.

In Benoni the Cape Cobras have their backs up against the wall as the Titans took control of the match. At the close the Cobras had struggled to 95 for 5, still 61 runs behind after the Titans had finished on 327. A fifty from Goolam Bodi and thirties from Godfrey Toyana and Dale Steyn gave the Titans a 156-run lead. The in-form Rory Kleinveldt was again the Cobras' leading wicket taker with 4 for 66. With Derrin Bassage undefeated on 50 the Cobras will be looking for a miracle to avoid a heavy defeat as they head into the final day.