A fantastic century from North West Dragons batsman, Shaylen Pillay, was one of the many highlights for the Dragons on a superb third day’s play of their CSA 4 Day match against the Boland Rocks at the JB Marks Oval.

Pillay scored 110 (273) yesterday (Tuesday, 14 February) in an innings that showcased patience and grit against a top Rocks bowling attack. He hit 8 fours and a six in his knock.

His century took the Dragons to 269 all out in their first innings – the first time they have managed to score more than 200 in a first innings this season.

Photos: Wouter Pienaar

The Dragons were in trouble earlier in the day when Achille Cloete (3/49) and Bamanye Xenxe (3/54) took the hosts from 150/2 to 150/5 in a couple of balls. Heino Kuhn, Delano Potgieter and Chris Britz were all dismissed for ducks.

Pillay got a handy partner in wicket-keeper, Khanya Cotani who hit a conservative 31 (91). Their partnership laid the backbone of the fight, after they had previously made a solid start. Opener, Lesego Senokwane hit 74 (99) and looked in terrific form with 14 boundaries. He lost his wicket late on the second day.

After taking a first innings lead, the Dragons bowlers, were pumped up and quickly had the Rocks in all sorts of trouble at 20/3. The Rocks managed to recover slightly with the Janneman Malan, still at the crease this morning on 67 (182).

The Rocks are currently on 176/8 with a 141-run lead with two sessions to go.

Delano Potgieter (4/37) has been the standout bowler in a brilliant bowling performance where they have given the Rocks no breathing room.

The Dragons have a superb opportunity to take victory if they can take the last two wickets before lunch.