South Africa Women v England Women Test match day two: Bell takes four wickets as tourists build lead

Lauren Bell took four wickets as England Women built a strong lead on day two of their Test match against South Africa in Bloemfontein.

The Proteas were dismissed for 281 in reply to England's first innings total of 395-9 declared.

Lauren Bell finished with 4-49 while debutant Ryana MacDonald-Gay struck twice.

Bell dismissed Anneke Bosch before Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen ensured a solid start.

On the stroke of lunch, the tourists took the wicket of Dercksen, courtesy of Sophie Ecclestone's fine one-handed catch at slip to leave South Africa on 113-2.

Captain Wolvaardt made 65 before being dismissed by Ecclestone.

Sune Luus and Kapp added 99 in a fourth-wicket stand but debutant MacDonald-Gay found the breakthrough by bowling Kapp for her first Test wicket, then dismissed Nadine de Klerk for a duck after lightning caused a break in play.

Bell then grabbed three quick wickets, including two in two balls. Lauren Filer finished on two wickets and Nat Sciver-Brunt on one.

The hosts dismissed England opener Maia Bouchier for a duck, but Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight steered England to 31-1 at close of play with England leading by 145 runs with nine wickets remaining.

Play resumes at 10am local time tomorrow (Tuesday 17 December).

Lauren Bell's post-play media conference is available to watch and download here.

ENDS