The touring team ended the first day on 237 for one.

Kirsten and Kallis's 212-run unbroken partnership for the second wicket comfortably passed the previous highest stand for South Africa in seven previous Tests at Old Trafford -- the 171 scored by John Waite and Paul Winslow for the sixth wicket in 1955.

It also equalled the highest second wicket stand for South Africa against any Test playing nation.

England's only success of the day came when Gerhardus Liebenberg played inside the line to a straight, quick delivery from Darren Gough and was bowled for 16.

Kirsten and Kallis enjoyed some luck before the sun made a belated appearance to dry the playing surface and remove much of the threat from England's seamers. Kallis was 117 not out at the close and Kirsten unbeaten on 98.