Nagpur, Feb 8: A seven-wicket haul by South African fast bowler Dale Steyn in the first innings forced India to follow-on in the first Test being played here. Steyn's piercing line and length overshadowed an exciting counter-attacking century (109) by Virender Sehwag on the third day of the match on Monday.

In the second knock, India was precariously placed at 37 for the loss of two wickets and still 288 runs in arrears when reports last came in. Both openers Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir were back in the pavilion. Steyn and Morne Morkel had taken a wicket apiece in round two.

Steyn's seven for 51 runs led to India collapsing for 233 in their first innings.

South African captain Graeme Smith enforced follow-on, as they were handed over an important lead of 325 runs.

Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell and Paul Harris grabbed a wicket each to make sure India was at some distance from the imposing South African total of 558-6 declared.

India lost wickets at regular intervals, including six wickets after tea.

Earlier, Sehwag displayed both class and resistance to score 109 off 139 deliveries with 15 boundaries. Middle-order batsman Subramaniam Badrinath scored a maiden Test half century (56 off 139 balls).