England were 138 for two at the close of play after Quinton de Kock’s maiden Test century took South Africa to a first innings total of 475.

Cook, who had scored only 103 runs in six innings in the first three Tests, batted solidly to finish unbeaten on 67. England lost Alex Hales early, when he sliced a drive against Kagiso Rabada to Dane Piedt at point after making 15.

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Alastair Cook

Nick Compton helped Cook add 56 for the second wicket before he fell victim to a ball from Rabada which shot through low and trapped him leg before wicket for 19.

Joe Root joined Cook and the pair took England through to the close in an unbeaten partnership of 60. Root was on 31 not out. De Kock made 129 not out off 128 balls as he and the South African tailenders frustrated the England bowlers on a hot, humid day.