The third test between England and South Africa went underway yesterday at Birmingham. England won the toss and elected to bat first. South African bowlers took advantage of the first day conditions and never let England get away. None of the batsmen except for Cook and Bell could really make an impact on the scoreboard. Both Cook and Bell scored half centuries and took their team to a respectable total of 231. South African bowlers made merry with Nel and Kallis getting three each, while Ntini picked up two. South Africa came out to bat and ended the day at 38 for 1. Captain Graeme Smith was the only wicket to fall who was out to the bowling of Flintoff. Opener McKenzie and Night Watchman Paul Harris were in the crease at stumps.