Australia vs South Africa 3rd Test: 5 talking points

The selection panel, itself rejigged following chairman Rod Marsh’s sudden resignation, made five changes in total.

“If this third Test lived up to audience estimates – and I think it would have exceeded those expectations – they (Nine) would be very, very happy”, Fusion Strategy analyst Steve Allen told AAP.

Australia’s victory saw off the threat of South Africa taking an unprecedented series clean sweep Down Under and was just the tonic after recrimination over the team’s abject form.

Smith said the result was “a little bit bittersweet” given the series had been surrendered but called it “a great start for a young group”.

He said he’d take time out to relax before the home test series against Sri Lanka. Warner rattled along at roughly a run a ball, Renshaw at a run an over.

The Proteas certainly did not blame a lack of preparation for their pink ball Test defeat here yesterday, but would like to see it become a regular part of South Africa’s domestic cricket calendar back home to prepare players for its unique challenges. In South Africa’s second innings, when batting had become easier as the pitch flattened, Stephen Cook was the only batsman to face more than 80 deliveries, in an indication that not many of them were willing to occupy the crease.

Du Plessis, who took over the team captaincy after AB de Villiers withdrew for elbow surgery, praised his team’s achievement in securing a third successive series victory in Australia. “We had three batters in the top six who had no scars or anything like that so they were able to come in and play their natural game, which was nice”.

The feats of Khawaja and Renshaw pleased Australian skipper Smith.

Du Plessis scored an unbeaten 118 in the first innings in Adelaide – South Africa’s first experience of a day-night test – before making tactical declaration at 259-9 on the first night.

“It shows a lot about his character and what he wants to do and I guess that’s kind of a template for what we’re looking for”, Smith added.

South Africa’s depth was tested when its inspirational captain was ruled out before the tour because of injury, and leading paceman Dale Steyn broke down on the second day of the series.

Financially, it may put a strain on the domestic unions to stage day-night first-class matches due to the high cost of electricity involved.

“The Aussie public was great until this last week, but I suppose that is just riding the wave of what happened – no hard feelings”.

Smith will next lead the test side out against Pakistan in another day-night match at the Gabba on December 15 and admitted he would retain some unhappy memories of the South Africa series. “That’s the bottom line”, he said.

Du Plessis became first captain to score a ton in a day-night Test. It is up to Smith and his new-look squad to ensure the Adelaide Test is a turning point, not an aberration.

Many among the media and players use the early finish to go to MONA – the Museum of Old and New Art.