Du Plessis closes in on ton as New Zealand toil

By Mark Gleeson PRETORIA (Reuters) - Captain Faf du Plessis was on the brink of a fifth test century after leading South Africa to 437 for six at tea on day two of the second test against New Zealand at Centurion on Sunday. Du Plessis compiled a patient unbeaten 95 from 205 balls and will resume with Vernon Philander (six not out) as South Africa look to build a big first-innings total on a lively wicket that has both sideways movement and variable bounce. New Zealand toiled hard but managed just a single wicket in the afternoon, that of recalled left-hander Stiaan van Zyl (35) who was caught in the slips by Ross Taylor off the impressive South African-born Neil Wagner. The seamer has been the pick of the tourists’ attack with figures of 4-76 from his 33 overs. Earlier, JP Duminy missed out on what could have been his fifth test ton when he was caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling off Tim Southee for 88. Duminy was recalled to the side after injury to AB de Villiers and would have hoped to reach his century to remind selectors of his ability ahead of test series in Australia and at home to Sri Lanka. The other wicket to fall on Sunday was that of Temba Bavuma (eight), who mis-timed a hook from a Wagner bouncer and was superbly caught by Doug Bracewell at fine leg. The first test in Durban was abandoned after just a day and a half’s play because of a wet outfield. (Editing by Editing by Ed Osmond)