Compton, Taylor Fifties Lead Recovery

Durban: Nick Compton and James Taylor added 125 for the fourth wicket as England fought back after an early collapse against South Africa on a rain-affected first day of the first Test in Durban.

The pair came together at 49-3 after openers Alastair Cook and Alex Hales failed and Joe Root fell for 24.

They showed resilience and patience to each make a half century before Taylor (70) became Dale Steyn's third victim.

Compton was unbeaten on 63 as England closed on 179-4.

Rain and then bad light meant only 65 overs were possible during the day.

It means an early start on day two is possible, with good weather forecast for the remainder of the Test.

And all five days are likely to be needed if there is to be a result on a slow, flat wicket that offers little for the bowlers and rewards diligent batting.

Brief scores
England - 179 for 4 (Taylor 70, Compton 63*, Steyn 3-29)

Scores	Upcoming	Results
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan - 3rd ODI 3rd ODI - South Africa v Pakistan - December 22, 12:00 GMT 4th Test - Australia v India - December 26-30, 23:30 GMT 3rd T20I - West Indies v Bangladesh at St Vincent Bangladesh won by 80 runs 2nd ODI - South Africa v Pakistan at Cape Town Pakistan won by 81 runs

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