New Zealand vs South Africa First Test: Day 2 Report

Rachin Ravindra struck an impressive double century before South Africa's top order collapsed on Monday, leaving New Zealand in command of the first Test in Mount Maunganui.

Rachin Ravindra (Image Source: Google)

Edward Moore (23) ballooned a Henry bouncer to a close fielder before Zubayr Hamza (22) played-on a ball from spinner Mitchell Santner.

Earlier, New Zealand's last five wickets fell for 38 as they pushed for quick runs.

One of them was Ravindra, whose 366-ball knock was a dramatic turnaround in the longest format, having never scored more than 18 in his six previous Test innings.

The left-hander, who began the day on 118, struck 26 fours and one six, with stroke-making reminiscent of his prolific efforts at last year's 50-over World Cup in India.

The 24-year-old was bowled trying to pull left-arm spinner Brand, who went on to claim figures of 6-119.

Brand became the first South African spinner to take six wickets on Test debut and his figures are the fourth best by a Proteas captain.

His most spectacular scalp was a sharp caught-and-bowled to remove Daryl Mitchell for 34 and end a 103-run partnership with Ravindra for the fourth wicket.

That followed a stand of 232 between Ravindra and Kane Williamson, who was caught on 118 trying for a big hit off Ruan de Swardt.