England got a boost when Smith trod on his own stumps

Stewart's innings of 72 was chiefly responsible for taking England from an overnight 296-3 to 445 all out on the second day of the third Test.

And England removed both South African openers in the final session to leave their opponents 84-2 at the end of Friday's play.

The usually destructive Graeme Smith was the main scalp - he was out hit wicket for 35 after hitting two double centuries in each of the first two Tests.

Stewart said: "I played very nicely. It's not the easiest of wickets to bat on.

"It's not easy to time it on but after being very careful and watchful early on I then timed it a bit better and became more adventurous later on.

"I was very pleased to walk off with a good innings behind me because the wicket will only get harder to bat on."

The 40-year-old was soon back on parade as England's wicket-keeper after being ninth man out and he was soon watching balls keeping worryingly low.

Driving seat

"It's always nice to see the ball misbehave once you have a big total," said Stewart. "But we have to keep the ball in the right areas."

He added: "I thought James Kirtley started off exceptionally well. He hasn't got a wicket yet but I think he will be rewarded tomorrow.

"If we can get them four for not that many then we will be in the driving seat but we have to stay ahead in the game.