Warner puts controversy behind him with fine ton

CAPE TOWN, Mar 1 (AFP): David Warner put a week of controversy behind him and hit a sparkling century for Australia on the first day of the series-deciding third and final Test against South Africa at Newlands Saturday.

Warner made 121 not out off 132 balls as Australia reached 195 for two at tea.

South Africa suffered a blow when strike bowler Dale Steyn, who took the first wicket, left the field with what appeared to be a hamstring injury midway through the afternoon after bowling one ball of the fourth over of his third spell.

Warner was fined 15 percent of his match fee and criticised by his captain, Michael Clarke, after making 'inappropriate comments' suggesting ball tampering by South Africa after the second Test in Port Elizabeth.

Tea Australia 194 for 2 (Warner 120*, Clarke 22*) v South Africa.