The Cape Cobras conceded a second-innings lead of 153 runs at the end of Day Three of their 4-Day Series clash with the Dolphins on Wednesday.
Coach Ashwell Prince’s manne need to get the visitors’ next three wickets cheaply if they want to keep their 100-percent winning record in the tournament.
Having resumed their first innings on 317/8, the Cobras were bowled out for 337 and the Dolphins set about making inroads into the hosts’ 122-run lead.
Proteas ace Vernon Philander, fresh off his 104 earlier, and fellow seamer Dane Paterson struggled to work their magic with the new ball and Cobras only got the first wicket in the 28th over with the Dolphins on 74.
The Durbanites built steadily to 148/4, but then they dug deep when Sibonelo Makhanya (53) joined former Cobras wicketkeeper Dane Vilas (68*) in the middle, putting up 113 runs for the fifth wicket.
Then Paterson made the breakthrough, claiming three quick wickets in Makhanya and Kerwin Mungoo (0) and Robbie Frylinck (0) in six balls to turn the tide.
Pato ended the day on 4/51.