India 185-7 (61 ovs) vs SA 286 | Scorecard

Hardik Pandya blasted a quickfire half-century to lead India's superb comeback in the post-lunch session on Day 2 of the first Test.

Pandya smashed an unbeaten 81 from 68 balls, having hit 13 fours and a six, to lift India to 185-7 in 61 overs at the tea break.

He put an unbroken stand of 93 for the eighth wicket with Bhuvneshwar, who provided good support, scoring 24 from 65 balls.

For the first time in the match, India's batsmen were able to get on top of the South African pace attack as Pandya launched a sensational counter-attack, hitting regular boundaries.

India suffered at the start of the post-lunch session, losing three quick wickets but they managed to stay afloat courtesy of Pandya.

Pujara played a patient innings of 26 from 92 balls before he fell off the first delivery of the second session, caught in the slips off Philander, who also dismissed Ashwin (12).

Saha didn't last long as he was trapped leg before wicket for a duck by Steyn.

Pandya helped India take the initiative after those three wickets as the visitors scored 109 runs in 25 overs in the second session.

India will be feeling confident following the fightback as they trail South Africa by just 101 runs. If Pandya can hang around for an hour or so after the tea interval, then he will not only get his hundred but also take India close to the South African score.