CAPE TOWN, SA (Reuters) - West Indies captain Brian Lara, who became the fastest man to reach 9 000 runs in Test-match history at Newlands yesterday, is confident his team can come from behind to win the third Test against South Africa.
Lara made a stubborn 115, his 24th Test century, to help his side avoid the follow-on and retain a chance of winning the match to keep alive a series in which they trail 2-0.
South Africa ended the third day on 38 without loss in their second innings, a lead of 143, after dismissing West Indies for 427.
``This game isn't over yet and I'm not giving up,'' Lara told reporters. ``We've got an opportunity but we've got to play cricket the way we know how to play it.
``It's important that we claw ourselves back into this game. Any result is possible at this moment and we have to go out there with a very positive mind tomorrow.
``Their (South Africa's) plan is to bat us out of the game. They have a slight advantage, but I think a total of 350 to chase is realistic for us.''
Lara became the fifth and fastest batsman to score 9 000 Test runs, reaching the landmark in his 101st match and 177th innings, two innings fewer than India's Sachin Tendulkar.
FURTHER IMPACT
Although delighted with his feat, the left-handed batsman was more concerned about the impact he could make in the match over the last two days.
``There are now five guys over 9 000 runs and I suppose to get there with the least amount of innings and the least amount of Test matches is an achievement in itself,'' he said.
``But, in the context of the game, I have to look beyond that and think of stretching it way past 9 000.''
Lara was last out, bowled by fast bowler Andre Nel who was able to celebrate his first five-wicket haul in Tests.
``It's a hard feeling to explain, I'm very excited,'' said the South African after finishing with figures of five for 87. ``I don't have the best action but my heart is big.
``To get Brian Lara for my first five-for was great -- he's an awesome player and that made it even more special.''