Day One goes to the visitors

South Africa ended Day One of the first test against India on 304/4, after winning the toss and electing to bat. A solid start in any circumstances. Neil McKenzie was unlucky to have missed out on a century, and only tomorrow will tell if Hashim Amla will get to his ton, after ending the day on an unbeaten 85.

The flat track at Chepauk was a bowler’s nightmare and India’s pace attack (Sreesanth and R P Singh) went wicketless. The limited success was due entirely to Kumble and Harbhajan.

If we can get a few quick wickets early tomorrow and maybe get them out by tea and bat on till stumps without losing a wicket, I’d say we’d be even. Traditionally, the pitch at Chepauk favours spinners and India will have to bat 4th. Not a fun prospect- especially if we have our backs to the wall.

But well done, Proteas. You can rest easy at least tonight.

And Gary Kirsten- you must be a worried man tonight!