Philander thanks fans after 50-Test milestone

Cape Town - Proteas bowler Vernon Philander has thanked his well-wishers after appearing in his 50th Test for South Africa.

Philander reached the milestone when the third and final Test against India started at the Wanderers in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

Philander took 2-31 as the Indians were bowled out for 187 in their first innings.

The 32-year-old became the 19th player to have played a half-century of Tests for South Africa, breaking out of a tie on 49 with Lance Klusener and joining wicketkeeper from the 1950 and 60s, John Waite on 50.

Jacques Kallis remains SA's most-capped player with 165 Tests to his name.

Following Wednesday's first day of action at the Wanderer, Philander took to Twitter to thank his fans:

Thank you so much for all the well wishes. Its a massive priviledge and honour to be playing my 50th test. All glory and honour to God for blessing me with the opportunity to do so.

— Vernon Philander (@VDP_24) January 24, 2018