Cheteshwar Pujara's first century on foreign soil ensured India were strong favourites to end their woeful recent away record after a dominant third day against South Africa in the first Test at Johannesburg.

After quickly wrapping up the Proteas' tail in the morning session the tourists reached the close on 284 for two and with a substantial lead of 320 runs on a Wanderers wicket showing signs of baring its teeth.

India have lost their previous eight away Tests - their last foreign win was against West Indies in June 2011 - but will resume today with Pujara (135) and Virat Kohli (77) firmly in control after a 191-run stand.

Pujara followed Kohli's first-innings century with his sixth Test ton to further underline India's new generation of batsmen are well-equipped to take over from where Sachin Tendulkar left off after ending his 24-year career last month.

To add to South Africa's woes, they will be unable to call on quick Morne Morkel to bowl for the rest of the match, after he forced off after turning an ankle.