England posted their first century opening stand in more than three years

England posted their first century opening stand in more than three years only to lose four wickets for 50 runs on a fluctuating first day of the fourth Test against South Africa in Johannesburg.

Zak Crawley’s maiden half-century, allied to 44 from Dom Sibley, took England to 107-0 just after tea on a day when the start was delayed by more than three hours because of rain at The Wanderers.

In the face of some improved South Africa bowling, England wasted their platform as the top order found ways of getting themselves out.

Sibley gave Beuran Hendricks his first Test wicket, Crawley fell for 66, a skittish Joe Denly was dismissed for 27 and Ben Stokes, who made only two, appeared to exchange angry words with someone off the field as he departed.

Stokes involved in apparent altercation
TMS podcast: England recover after a mini-collapse

It was left to captain Joe Root and Ollie Pope to steady the tourists, taking them to 192-4 when bad light ended play.

Despite the collapse, England still have the opportunity to build a sizable first-innings total, which would then give them the opportunity to pressure South Africa on a pitch which seems set to crack.

Conversely, the Proteas’ recovery from a sloppy first session means they can still bowl out the tourists relatively cheaply.

England lead the series 2-1 and will secure only a second overseas series win in four years if they avoid defeat.