Steyn dismissed Cook, Hales and Taylor

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

South Africa pace bowler Dale Steyn was back to his best on the first day of the first Test in Durban, but England batsmen Nick Compton and James Taylor scored 63 not out and 70 respectively to keep their side in a steady position.

Despite a stop-start day due to bad weather, South Africa captain Hashim Amla would have been pleased with his decision to bowl first as Steyn dismissed England skipper Alastair Cook and debutant Alex Hales for zero and 10 respectively.

Joe Root followed a short while later for 24 as he was given out lbw off the bowling of Dane Piedt despite reviewing the decision.

With England teetering, Compton and Taylor steered the innings back in the right direction with a 125-run partnership, during which both batsmen brought up their half-centuries, before Taylor was caught behind off the bowling of Steyn.

Taylor’s excellent knock of 70 came off 137 balls and included nine boundaries and a six.

Taylor hit nine boundaries and a six during his knock of 70

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Compton and Stokes managed to amass an unbeaten five-run partnership before bad light brought play to an end earlier than expected.

Compton finished on 63 off 179 balls, which included four boundaries, while Stokes remained undefeated on five off eight deliveries, which included one boundary.

Compton scored his second Test fifty

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Steyn was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets, while Piedt claimed one.

England ended day one on 179/4 and will continue batting tomorrow at 09:30 local time, 07:30 GMT.