Hussey's knock put Australia in a strong position on day two

The Proteas were 10-2 replying to the 369 Hussey's 75 helped Australia to but Kallis made a fine 72 to prop them up.

"It was a good effort because we had to work hard to get our runs. It's a good total on this pitch," Hussey said.

"If we can break this partnership there's a good chance of taking two or three wickets quickly."

But after seeing his side lose the opening Test in Cape Town and toiling on the second afternoon, South Africa coach Mickey Arthur was feeling happier.

Arthur admitted his dressing room was a "little bit nervous" when skipper Graeme Smith fell first ball, while Herschelle Gibbs also went cheaply.

He added, however: "Jacques is awesome. As long as he's there there's a certain calmness in the dressing room.

"Jacques is the key, and I know he badly wants a double hundred and let's hope it comes tomorrow.

"We've got to get stuck in during the first session. The wicket always does a bit after it's been under the covers. We need to negotiate that, and then we can have a look."