Cricket: Centurions put Proteas in charge

Hashim Amla and Jaques Kallis hit majestic centuries as South Africa heaped misery on hapless India bowlers to reach 366 for two on day two of the opening Test in Centurion.

The experienced pair continued their tremendous form to secure a 230-run lead with eight wickets remaining. Kallis (102 not out) hit nine fours and three sixes, while Amla (116 not out) recorded nine fours and one six.

Captain Graeme Smith (62) and Alviro Petersen (77) also contributed as South Africa replied to India's 136 all out.

The Proteas had a productive first session, with openers Smith and Petersen scoring 111 runs in 26.3 overs as India's bowlers lacked sting in the absence of Zaheer Khan - missing due to a hamstring injury.

Smith eventually fell to Harbhajan Singh, but his 87-ball innings, which included 11 boundaries, put South Africa on course for a formidable first-innings total.

Kallis was the first to reach a century, his 38th, from 122 balls, his fastest in the 143 Tests that he has turned out for South Africa.Amla brought up his 12th century in style by pulling Ishant to the mid-wicket boundary as the home side cruised past 350.

A few overs later the duo brought up their 200 partnership from 281 balls.