The Cape Cobras’ batting lineup collapsed on Day Two of their 4-Day Series clash against the Lions in Paarl.
Having wrapped up the Lions’ first innings for 337 from their overnight 300/7 on Tuesday morning, the Cobras were bowled out for just 138 in their reply as the visitors took a 199-run lead.
Zubayr Hamza fought a lone battle for the hosts, scoring 56 runs off 113 balls.
Lions medium pacer Nono Pongolo accounted for both Malan brothers, Janneman and Pieter, at the top of the Cobras innings and also took the wicket of Aviwe Mgijima (24) to end with bowling figures of 3/29.
He was assisted by former Proteas spinner Aaron Phangiso who also claimed three scalps for just 11 runs in six overs.
Cobras captain Dane Piedt did his best to bring his team back into the game in the Lions’ second innings, removing opener Stephen Cook (3), caught by Pieter Malan, before also getting the wicket of Dominic Hendricks (9), caught by Tladi Bokako.
The Lions had both their openers back in the hut with their score on 35. And when first-innings centurion Wihan Lubbe was sent packing by Bokako with the overall score on 39, the Cobras believed they were back in the tie.
Temba Bavuma (17) was next to go, as the Lions finished the day on 101/4 with Nicky van der Bergh (38*) and Paarl-born Lion Bjorn Fortuin (8*) at the crease.