Hashim Amla’s unbeaten 69 guided South Africa to a relatively strong position at 3-191 at tea against New Zealand on the opening day of the second cricket Test on Friday.

Amla’s half-century put South Africa in control again at St. George’s Park after Graeme Smith (54) and Jacques Kallis (8) fell in the space of five overs soon after lunch to give the Black Caps a chance of making serious inroads into South Africa’s batting at 3-137.

Amla’s steady fightback was aided by 29 not out from AB de Villiers in a partnership of 54.

Doug Bracewell was New Zealand’s best bowler, removing opener Alviro Petersen for 21 and Kallis quickly for his 2-44.

Smith went past 50 soon after lunch but gloved a catch behind to wicketkeeper BJ Watling off the recalled Neil Wagner.