Hashim Amla's ton helps SA post 540

South Africa's Hashim Amla was elated after scoring his first overseas century in the first Test against India on Thursday.

Amla's 159 led the visitors to 540 all out before India put up 82 without loss by the close of the second day.

The number three batsman handled the home spinners and the heat for almost seven hours to register his fourth Test century.

"It was a good wicket to bat on but they were the hottest conditions I've ever batted on, that was the most difficult challenge," Amla told reporters.

"It is always special to score a hundred in the subcontinent, it gives you a lot of confidence. It is a special moment because it came away from home."

Amla was eventually run-out after a mix-up with Mark Boucher (70).