Ricky Ponting's dramatic century in Cape Town had the leadership hallmarks of a future Test skipper but he's reluctant to see it that way.

Ponting declared his 100 not out - reached with a six in the final to secure Australia's four wicket win in the second Test against South Africa - among the best of his 10 Test centuries.

The 27-year-old is still to earn the tag of match-winner from his 55 Tests but his Cape Town knock should erode some of his reputation as an inconsistent batsman under pressure.

But Ponting laughed off a question about whether it was the innings of a future Test captain.

"I don't know about that," Ponting said.

"As far as my personal innings in a vital situation it was probably as good as any. That wicket out there was pretty good for batting as you could see by the scores.

You had to bowl very well."

Ponting boosted his batting average to 45.09 and continued an impressive record since he was woken in Potchefstroom last month with the news he was Australia's new one-day skipper, replacing Steve Waugh.

He scored a century the following day against South Africa A and he showed maturity by remaining steady when Australia's run chase hit bumpy ground in Cape Town.

His first 50 runs were spiced by some dangerous moments but the Tasmanian put his head down after lunch on the final day to help steer Australia home.

"I certainly took it upon myself once the top few batters were out and I wanted to make sure I was there at the end to give ourselves the best chance to win the game," Ponting said.

"I think I played the situation pretty well.

"As it turned out I paced things really well. It was just nice to be there at the end to hit the winning runs in a Test match."

© 2002 AAP