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Bangladesh looked slightly more comfortable on the third morning of the first Test against South Africa in Bloemfontein today, but were still in deep trouble when a thunderstorm forced the umpires to take lunch early.

When first lightning and then rain forced the players off the field, Bangladesh had 67 for three in the second innings, and still trailed South Africa by 221 runs.

Tamim Iqbal and Zunaeed Siddique managed to last for 50 minutes before Iqbal flashed at a wide delivery from Makhaya Ntini, and was neatly caught behind by Mark Boucher for 20. He and Zunaeed had put on 32 runs together for the second wicket.

Zunaeed lost his wicket shortly before the start of the storm, when he was also caught behind by Boucher off Jacques Kallis.

Although he did not take a wicket, Morne Morkel bowled much better than he had done on the second day, and finished the session with the very respectable figures of four runs off five overs.

Dale Steyn was the most expensive bowler, conceding 32 runs off his seven overs.

Paul Harris, who took a wicket in Bangladesh's first innings, flew to Cape Town this morning to consult a specialist about the injury to his left hand. He broke a bone at the base of his thumb during fielding practice on Wednesday.

He is expected to be out of action for three to four weeks, but his injury is not expected to affect his inclusion in the party to tour Australia next month.

However, he will not be available to play for the Titans in the Champions League in India.

Sapa