Proteas fast bowler Kagiso Rabada won his battle against India captain Virat Kohli on the first day of the third Test at Newlands but he admits it wasn’t easy.

Kohli, who missed the second Test due to a back spasm, top-scored with 79 as India were bowled out for 223. South Africa were 17-1 at stumps.

Rabada took 4-73, including the wicket of Kohli, who was caught behind by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne.

“He’s a brilliant player. You want to measure yourself against the best players in the world,” said Rabada, who is playing in his 50th Test match.

However, the 26-year-old had a plan to get the wicket of one of India’s star batters, which paid off in the 73rd over.

“The plan was to bowl a good line and length. I was trying to get the ball to swing away and not really go for the pads. It was pretty obvious and that’s where he has been getting out,” Rabada said. “I think that’s why he was very patient in leaving balls and that’s why we tried to stick it.

“He batted extremely well and well done to him.”

ALSO READ: Rabada wins Kolhi battle to make it Proteas’ day