In a press conference after the day two of India vs South Africa Test match on Thursday, Mayank Agarwal, the double centurion, expressed his delight on his fascinating knock of 215 runs. “I am extremely happy that I am able to contribute to the team, being part of a side, which is winning matches and winning tournaments is a privilege and I am happy to be a part of that side, he said. 

“You can’t think of what will happen if you don’t score runs, you always have to back yourself, believe in yourself, go out there and try to contribute to the side. It's very clear in the side that it's not only about big runs, but it's about winning crucial situations and if you do that, there is nothing like it. As an opening batsman, you have to set the tone for your side and play the new ball out and once you get set, try and make it big”, Agarwal opined while speaking to ANI. 

READ | Ind vs SA Live: Mayank Agarwal leads India's dominance on Day 2

'We made sure we bat five-five, six-six hours'

On being probed about his preparations ahead of the ongoing test series, he said, “When I was training before the season with my coach, we made sure that we bat five-five, six-six hours. We used to bat for around two to two and half hours then take a little break and then bat again, preparing to play those long hours has helped me combined with a lot of long-distance running.”

READ | Ind vs SA: Opener Mayank Agarwal's journey to the top

India dominates

India has been dominating the match ever since the start of the play on day one, openers Agarwal and Sharma built a solid stand for Indian team building the first wicket partnership of 317 runs with Sharma scoring 174 before being stumped by the Quinton de Kock. India declared at 502/7 followed by South Africa losing wickets in quick succession, scoring 39 runs at the loss of 3 wickets at the end of day two.

READ | Ind vs SA: Indian batsmen dominate as Mayank Agarwal departs for 215

READ | Ind vs SA Live: Sachin praises Mayank Agarwal and Rohit Sharma