Albie Morkel hit his seventh first-class century on Thursday to resurrect the Titans' innings on the first day of the SuperSport Series match against the Cape Cobras at Newlands.
At the close of play, the Titans were 338/7 off 103 overs in their first innings, after Cobras captain Justin Kemp inserted the visitors in overcast conditions. Morkel was unbeatean on 108, and Gerhardus Viljoen not out on 31. The pair have already added 61
runs for the eighth wicket.
Kemp's call seemed the correct decision after the first hour's play. Cobras opening bowler Johann Louw (3/42) removed Pieter Malan (1) and Heino Kuhn (10), while the early introduction of left-arm spinner Claude Henderson had the undoing of Titans captain Jacques Rudolph (14), leaving the visitors reeling at 26/3.
It would have been further vindicated had wicket-keeper Ryan Canning not missed a regulation stumping off SuperSport Series debutant Dane Piedt when he bamboozled Farhaan Behardien through the air – the right-hander had just 32 at the time. The let off allowed Behardien to settle at the crease, allowing him to add 94 runs for the fourth wicket with Henry Davids (37), which put the Titans in a more comfortable position.
Piedt eventually gained his revenge, and his maiden SuperSport Series wicket, when Behardien (83, 165 balls, 12x4) went down the track again, but only managed a thick inside edge to short-leg after the off-spinner darted the ball into his pads.
Former Proteas international Morkel did not let Behardien's dismissal deter him. The powerful left-hander continued to drive and cut with immense power, taking advantage of the friendlier batting conditions in the afternoon sessions. He was particularly severe on the spinners in final session, to put the Titans in a comfortable position by the close.
This match could have a major significance on the outcome of the SuperSport Series title. The Titans, with 89.1 points, are in top-spot, with the Cobras placed second on 76.98 points. – Sapa