The tourists ended day three in Port Elizabeth 270 runs adrift of the Proteas on 170-2, with Marlon Samuels and Kraigg Brathwaite 60 and 65 not out respectively.
And with the pitch offering little pace and bounce to South Africa's quick bowlers, the stage seems set for Chanderpaul to play a typically assured, long innings.
That is a scenario South Africa bowling coach Donald is desperate to avoid.
"This pitch is probably tailor made for Shiv where he can grind away; if we break this partnership and we get Shiv in, we know that the tail is very long and hopefully we can race through them respectfully," he said.
"We know when we come here, it's going to be a bit of a toil. You have to be creative, smart and very patient."
That South Africa eventually posed an impressive total of 417-8 declared was thanks to a stunning innings from number 11 Dale Steyn, who used just 28 balls in amassing a six-laden 58.
But his efforts with the ball will take centre stage on Monday, at a ground where he stunningly bowled his side to victory against Australia earlier this year.
"We saw a magnificent spell there when he just went through the gears," Donald said.
"He is that sort of bowler that picks his time and knows when to really step it up and bowl at his optimum pace. It will require that sort of skill, patience and aggression tomorrow to open up an end."