South Africa cruising towards first test victory

CENTURION, South Africa, Jan 15 (Reuters) Hashim Amla and Jacques Kallis were looking assured at the crease as South Africa closed in on victory in the first test against Pakistan in Centurion today.

South Africa were 122 for three in their second innings at lunch on the fifth day in search of a victory target of 199.

At the interval, Amla was 35 not out with Kallis on 22 in a partnership that quietly grew to 42 runs.

Pakistan were dismissed for 313 in their first innings and South Africa replied with 417 before bowling out the tourists for 302 on Sunday.

South Africa resumed on 69-2 after early morning rain delayed the start of play by 45 minutes and nightwatchman Paul Harris was the only casualty of the session for seven.

Harris was dismissed in the sixth over of the day when he drove a delivery from fast bowler Mohammad Asif into the hands of Faisal Iqbal in the covers.

Meanwhile, Cricket South Africa (CSA) said in a statement that Herschelle Gibbs would appear at a disciplinary hearing concerning an incident during the fourth day's play on Sunday.

Gibbs was heard on a stump microphone making derogatory comments about Pakistanis.

The comments generated a flood of e-mails to the broadcasters and the Pakistan Cricket Board has lodged a complaint with International Cricket Council match referee Chris Broad.

REUTERS PM RN1650