'Happy to give the team a 300-run lead'

“I am a little disappointed not to get a hundred because I’ve never got a hundred in South Africa. This would have been the right moment for me. But I am happy that I helped the team get a handy lead of 300-odd,” the Hyderabadi, whose troublesome back became stiff whilst batting, said on Tuesday after making 96 and helping India set the hosts a target of 303.

“Any knock which helps the team do well is really satisfying. I am really glad I was able to do that again today.

“Doing well for the team is the only motivation for me. The bowlers got us back well in the first innings when we bowled them out for 131. It was very important to take a good lead and give them a good target to bowl with. It was just a matter of one partnership and luckily, me and Zak had that partnership.”

Laxman said with South Africa still needing 192 to win with seven wickets in hand, India were quietly fancying their chances. “The way we bowled in the first innings is an example of what we can do,” he pointed out. “They got off to a decent start after Smith got out but the way our bowlers got back in, and even this afternoon when we took three quick wickets after they got off to a flier, shows that we have got the temperament to hold our nerve. I am sure we will do our best tomorrow.

At 111 for three, South Africa are 192 shy of sealing a series win against India, and Paul Harris said the team was confident of reeling in the required runs on Wednesday’s third day.

“We are still quietly confident, we have seven wickets in hand, and the wicket has got a little bit better to bat on,” the left-arm spinner told newsmen. “All we need is one partnership, and then the game is in the bag. We have got to work hard and build that partnership. This partnership between AB and Kallis is crucial.”