Chennai: Graeme Smith was happy with the way his team bounced back on the fourth day of the first Test. He also said that he was hoping for a balanced pitch in Ahmedabad.

The following are excerpts

We had set up the game well and I think it needed an incredible innings and India got that. I think if Virender (Sehwag) had been out for 200, we would have had an opportunity to have a go at India. It was a good batting track. Even though it’s ended in a draw it’s set up things very nicely for the next game. We’ve learnt a few things and hopefully can make it count for us in Ahmedabad.

Dale Steyn’s bowling

I was very happy with the way we performed Saturday. We learnt a lot from Day III when Virender played superbly. I think all three seamers bowled really well on Day IV. There was a lot of reverse swing on the fourth day. Many of my boys are here for the first time.

The positives

I’m very happy with the way the top six have performed. Hashim (Amla) has played superbly… He’s taken his game to a new level and is looking sound technically and mentally. I’ll love to see him build on from where he is now, get better and better. Neil (McKenzie) is quite an experienced cricketer… We’ve brought him back to open and he’s added value to our team.

On tackling spinners in the subcontinent

I think we’ve dealt with spin pretty well this season — in Pakistan, Bangladesh and here. In terms of our capabilities of tackling spin — technique, game plan, etc., — we are pretty sound. We’ve probably surprised a few of you… We’ve generally proven we can play it well.