17 November 2007

South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis hoped scoring his fastest test century against New Zealand would silence critics of his slow scoring rate.

Kallis reached his 29th century off 143 balls before being dismissed for 131 on Saturday.

Bad light ended the second day of the second test seven overs after tea with South Africa on 272-3, a lead of 84 runs.

"It was nice getting the hundred but in the last few games and in the last few years it's been the way I've been scoring them that has been more pleasing," Kallis, who has smashed five centuries in his last seven tests innings, told a news conference.

"They've come at a good rate and I've been playing a lot more positively.

"I've caught a bit of criticism for not stepping up a gear, but hopefully I've silenced those critics for a while."

Kallis thought the pitch would deteriorate, which he said could be to the advantage of the home side.

"If we can get 200 ahead it's going to put a lot of pressure on New Zealand because on day four and five I think the bounce will get really uneven."

Kallis was dismissed five balls after tea when debutant fast bowler Mark Gillespie trapped him in front to earn his maiden test wicket.

Gillespie's strike also ended a stand of 220 between Kallis and Hashim Amla, who was 89 not out at the close.

"To break that partnership was just as special as to get my first wicket," Gillespie said.

South Africa lead the two match series 1-0.

© Reuters 2007

New Zealand In South Africa