South Africa pacer Morne Morkel was surprised at the nature of pitch on offer at the Kingsmead here after India today took early control of the series-deciding second cricket Test by finishing day one on a commanding 181 for one.

Morkel termed the Kingsmead pitch as a "sub-continent like wicket" after Murali Vijay struck a delightful unbeaten 91 and together with Cheteshwar Pujara (58 not out) added unconquered 140 runs for the second wicket before bad light brought a premature end to the opening day's proceedings.