Aus look forward to cash on wounded South Africa
The four-test series in South Africa will be a battle of fast bowlers, unlike the big role spin played in India's ODI series win, said Australian Skipper Steve Smith.
At the press conference on Saturday, Smith said, " The Indian leg-spinners performed remarkable and pin downed Soth African batsman. He wishes he had a leggie in his arsenal for the four test-series starting next month."
Smith said about whether a leg-spinner would have been handy, " Yeah, I think.I think (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon has been a good spinner and he has done well recently. No doubt he can play a big part in this series.”
Also Read: Virat Kohli's genious knock floors women cricketers
He also believes that the series will involve a battle between fast bowlers and short-pitched stuff, not only for the tail-enders but also for top-order batsmen.
Smith said, “South Africa has good, young pace bowlers and also have (Vernon) Philander. The batters would love to take up the challenge. It will be a bit challenging for the batsmen. But it is going to be a fantastic series for the viewers. Both the fast bowling line-ups are good, it will be a nice, fiery series for the batters and a tough one too.”
“I have been watching the one-dayers in bits and pieces over the last few days. South Africa have not been at their best, although the Indians have been playing really well. For us, it is important to keep their confidence low and start really well in the first Test in Durban,” Smith added.
The four-test series will start from March 1.
Australia and South Africa have been beating each other at the other’s home. A big reason, says Smith, is similar conditions. Australia has been playing t20s and Tests simultaneously because of that there has been workload. Smith told that he was so tired until two weeks ago that he didn't even pick up the bat.
One major concern has been workload. The Aussie skipper acknowledged he was so tired he didn’t want to pick up the bat until two weeks ago when he eventually got a break. He is now raring to go as the break has done him and his team a world of good. Australia has been playing T20s and Tests almost simultaneously.
First published: 18 February 2018, 11:49 IST
