Dean Elgar: ‘I don't think I wanted to prove any point, just that I wanted to go out with a bang’

Dean Elgar was the toast of the nation on Wednesday with his magnificent 140 not out off 211 deliveries that helped South Africa seize control on Day 2 of the first Test against India in Centurion.

For the senior opener, however, the century — his first at his home ground and his 14th overall in Tests — was more about bowing out of international cricket with a bang than proving a point. Elgar’s knock, which includes 23 fours, helped South Africa end the day on 256/5, leading India by 11 runs.

“I don’t think I wanted to prove any point. Just that I wanted to go out with a bang as that is (the) standard I set for myself as there’s no looking back now,” Elgar said about his 14th hundred.

Elgar assessed that the track had become better for batting as there was no sunshine, which would have resulted in cracks on the surface but it held firm.

“It was quite a good wicket to bat on. Had there been more sun, it would have been tougher. It’s just that it’s been my way. Could have been another batter another day.”

Normally known for his defensive dogged approach, Elgar wanted to look to score runs.

“Your mindset has to be looking to score but also defend and leave balls. There’s one ball with your name on it jags back. When you look to score, you are in better position to make good decisions, capitalise on balls that are over pitched.”

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