Aiden Markram celebrates emotional century upon return to Proteas Test side

Markram was dropped for the last series against Australia following a string of poor performances in the red-ball format, but marked the start of this new era with a 115-run innings on day one of the first clash at SuperSport Park yesterday.

The 28-year-old believes losing his place was "weirdly" a blessing in disguise.

"I think for myself firstly it might have been a good thing, today felt like I was starting on a clean slate. Things work out quite weirdly at times. We need runs on the board and if you are not scoring runs in a team that wants to compete and be the best in the world your position should be under scrutiny. So, I think it might have worked out nicely in hindsight but I'm extremely grateful to be back in the mix today," he said.

Conrad made it crystal clear from the onset that he regards Markram highly, hence his immediate recall to the side, and the right-hander aptly repaid the faith of a coach he's quite familiar with.

"I've come a long way now with the coach and we've got a really good relationship and a really good understanding between the two of us. I think it's always great when a coach backs you like that. It gives you that extra bit of confidence," he added.

Upon reaching his ton, Markram cut an emotional figure as he removed his helmet to celebrate the milestone, and he admits he fought to hold back some tears given the personal significance of the moment.

"I was fighting tears a bit because it meant quite a lot to me. It's been a strange journey but I'm grateful that it worked out. It always seems to be a little more special when you do it at your own venue with some of your friends and family," he concluded.