Boucher earns South Africa slim lead

CAPE TOWN, Jan 27 (Reuters) Mark Boucher's unbeaten 40 with five fours and two sixes gave South Africa a 26-run first innings lead as the third test against Pakistan headed for a swift conclusion today.

At lunch on the second day, Pakistan were 22 for one in their second innings, trailing by four. The visitors were all out for 157 in their first innings and South Africa made 183.

South Africa had resumed on 131 for five but lost five wickets for 52 runs in 14 overs.

Fast bowler Mohammad Sami ended the innings when he trapped Makhaya Ntini in front for nought. Mohammad Asif took three for 53 and Danish Kaneria three for 44.

Pakistan lost their first wicket in their second innings in the third over before lunch when Mohammad Hafeez on 10 slashed a drive off Dale Steyn and was caught at backward point.

REUTERS SAM VC1700