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I loved ball that knocked out Prince's off stump: Sreesanth

January 04, 2011 09:42 IST

India would look to bat well on day three and put South Africa under pressure in the third and final Test in Cape Town, medium pacer S Sreesanth said.

-Scorecard

Sreesanth's five-wicket haul helped India dismiss South Africa for 362 in their first innings and then reach 142 for two at stumps on Day 2 and the Kerela seamer hoped they would continue their good work on Tuesday.

"I think we are in good position. Because of sun wicket has eased out big time. I think if we can bat well on day three we can dominate this match," Sreesanth said.

S Sreesanth"We have good batting line up to do that. We lost Rahul Dravid through unfortunate run out but still we are confident of batting well and putting them under pressure," he said.

Allrounder Jacques Kallis forged a 52-run partnership for the 10th wicket with tailender Lonwabo Tsotsobe (8) to take South Africa to 362 and Sreesanth hoped it doesn't backfire.

"Second new ball was very important. I was trying to release the ball and keep the off stump line. I think we bowled well but last wicket partnership of 50 odd runs was crucial. I hope it doesn't make big difference in the game. But they really applied their mind and played well," he said.

Sreesanth also acknowledged the contribution made by legendary pacer Dennis Lillee and TA Sekar on his career.

"I am gifted about that skill of landing the ball exactly on the seam. In earlier days I was leg spinner. At MRF academy I learned lot of skills from Lillee sir and even T A Sekar sir. We worked very hard on that aspect," he said.

"For any fast bowler rhythm is the most important thing. I was feeling that rhythm here too. Basically this is one of the most beautiful grounds. Setting is so magnificent with Table Mountain in the backdrop. Wicket is also very nice to bowl on. I would love to carry this wicket all over the world.

"I was happy to contribute to teams cause. I love to perform on big stage. I loved ball that knocked out Prince's off stump. I was working on bowling in the channel of wind. That is why it gave me great pleasure," he added.

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