Glasgow - South Africa's Johan Cronje has bagged the third qualifying spot in the men's 1500m heat at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Friday.
Cronje led at 1000m before finishing third in time of 3 minutes 40.17 seconds, behind winner Ronald Kwemoi of Kenya (3:39.90 sec) and England's Charlie Grice (3:40.17 sec).
"Tomorrow's going to be a different story", said Cronje who will line up in the final on Saturday.
"I just wanted to keep out of trouble, and knew I could pick it up if needed over the last 500m."
Cronje said he had a clear idea of what to expect in the final.
"Its probably going to be a very slow first half and a very fast second," said the 32 year old from Bloemfontein.
"I hope I have kept my fast one for this. Most of the guys ran their big one in Monaco, but they are on form."
Cronje has just been added to South Africa's selection for the African Championships in Marrakech in mid-September.
"I know I said a lot after the initial selection, but I would have preferred that a youngster go to these championships so as to get experience.
"However I am now included and so I will be going."