South Africa may feel that after an ideal start they let Sri Lanka back into the match. But in saying that, judging from what I saw of the pitch, they are not doing too badly.
If South Africa can get to lunch today with maybe one or two more wickets down, they have a good chance of achieving their first-innings objective of 400 or so runs on the board. It is a must if they are to put Sri Lanka's batting under pressure for the rest of the match.
The day began beautifully with Alviro Petersen and Dean Elgar in an attacking mood. Peterson once again found himself in, only to go out in a casual manner. It is a characteristic of his game that is becoming far too familiar. I thought Elgar's defence was superb. This innings will give him enormous confidence as he was made to work hard for his hundred.
The move to bat Faf du Plessis at three was a good one and his mixture of caution and attack is the way to play the Sri Lankan spinners. I hope his team-mates took note.
South Africa know that one big partnership is all they need, but it won't be easy with Sri Lanka having the option of the second new ball. I feel Quinton de Kock and JP Duminy have big roles to play today, and one of them has to play a substantial innings. Both have a point to prove and now is as good a time as ever to do it.
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