Erwee hails Proteas spin twins Maharaj, Harmer: 'They know their game through and through'

Proteas batter Sarel Erwee hopes that his side can continue playing the positive cricket they've delivered to date as they edge closer to a Test series win against Bangladesh in the second Test at St George's Park.

South Africa dominated day three on Sunday as they quickly restricted the Tigers to 217.

Despite being able to enforce the follow-on, Dean Elgar and co decided to bat and extend their lead, which was already a healthy 236.

Erwee top-scored with 41 as the Proteas eventually declared on 176/6, setting a record target of 413 to win.

READ | Bangladesh left in tatters as Proteas edge closer to Test series win

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Erwee says that declaring was always a potential plan.

"We had a minimum score of 400-plus that we were looking at before we wanted to declare and obviously a certain amount of overs to get that lead," said the Proteas opener.

"So it was always a plan and that's why we saw some positive shot-making when we were batting."

The Proteas spin twins Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer starred with the ball as they toppled the Bangladesh top-order.

Maharaj dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for a duck and Najmul Hossain Shanto for 7, while Harmer took the wicket of Tamim Iqbal for 13 as Bangladesh ended on 27/3.

Erwee praised the experienced spinning duo, saying that their abilities have been crucial in putting the team in such a powerful position.

"They're experienced campaigners and have played a lot of Tests and now know their craft through and through," said Erwee.

"They've got different variations and speeds. I'd like to think that their partnership stands us in good stead as a South African Test side."

The Proteas need seven more wickets to clinch the Test series 2-0 and Erwee lauded his side's