Nathan Astle refused to blame a lively pitch for New Zealand's collapse to 119 all out on the opening of the third Test against South Africa on Friday.
New Zealand lost the toss and were put in to bat, losing their first three wickets for two runs. South Africa were 133 for four when bad light ended play 13 overs early.
"There was a little bit there, but at this time of year the groundsman can only do so much," number five Astle, who scored 20, told a news conference.
"There's nothing you can do about it, it's part and parcel of playing cricket. The main thing was that the ball was going both ways.
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"We had a target of about 250, and we fell well short of that," Astle said.
Makhaya Ntini took five for 35 and pace partner Dale Steyn three for 43. Astle and Fleming shared 55 for the fourth wicket, New Zealand's biggest partnership.
Astle has not given up hope of New Zealand remaining competitive in the match as they bid to level a series that South Africa lead 1-0.