Proteas dominate day one with bat

South Africa's top order laid the foundations for a large first-innings total on the first day of the opening Test against India in Chennai.

After openers Graeme Smith (73) and Neil McKenzie (94) both posted half-centuries, Hashim Amla remained unbeaten on 85 at the close to help guide the tourists to 304 for four.

The Indians grabbed two wickets during the evening session to rein in the Proteas' early charge with Jacques Kallis (13) and Ashwell Prince (23) failing to capitalise on the top order's earlier efforts.

AB de Villiers (10 not out) finished the day at the crease alongside Amla, who struck 10 fours in his patient innings.

The Indian bowlers were made to toil in hot conditions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where they have lost just one Test in the last 23 years, with spin duo Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble claiming two wickets apiece.