England's Sam Curran revels in Boxing Day success in South Africa

The Surrey left-armer took 4-57 at Centurion as South Africa closed on 277 for 9 on day one

Sam Curran was thrilled as England took advantage of bowling first in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa at Centurion.

The Surrey left-armer took advantage of some lateral movement to finish with 4-57.

Joe Root won the toss and chose to field, and it paid dividends with regular break-throughs, though Quinton de Kock's 95 did hold the tourists up.

But Curran got rid of the wicket-keeper batsman to ensure that with The proteas closing on 277 for 9, that the spoils on day one were shared.

"It was an even day - we're pretty pleased," he told Sky Sports. "Any time you choose to bowl first there's a lot of responsibility on the bowlers.

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"I felt good. The ball swung all day. I was pleased - it's my first time playing in South Africa, so it was enjoyable. The bowlers are pretty pleased to come to pitches that carry.

"De Kock plays his natural game. We let him get off the hook a little bit. Fair play to him - and he got a good score.

"It's a pretty good wicket and fast-scoring outfield. Hopefully, our batters can bat big and put overs in their legs. There is going to be cracks. Hopefully, we can bat big first innings and put them under pressure."

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