Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the series-opening test against South Africa starting on Saturday as he continues to recover from a side strain, but captain Pat Cummins is likely to return from a quadricep injury.

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the series-opening test against South Africa starting on Saturday as he continues to recover from a side strain, but captain Pat Cummins is likely to return from a quadricep injury. Both the quicks missed the second test against West Indies, which Australia won by 419 runs at Adelaide Oval on Sunday to sweep the two-match series 2-0. Selectors omitted Hazlewood from a 14-man squad named on Monday for the Gabba Test against the Proteas while adding uncapped Western Australia seamer Lance Morris as injury cover. Read more: Dominant Australia skittle a toothless West Indies for 77 to win the second Test “Pat continues to improve, bowled with freedom on Saturday and appears likely to play this match although Josh will need more time,” selectors chairman George Bailey said in a statement. In the absence of Hazlewood and Cummins, Michael Neser and Scott Boland took eight wickets between them in Adelaide, where Steve Smith captained the side. “Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott,” said Bailey. “We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past.” Australia squad Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian quick Josh Hazlewood ruled out of opening Test against South Africa

Pakistan vs England, Rawalpindi run-feast: Most runs scored on a single day of a Test

Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018 made heads turn in the cricketing fraternity. After the series was tied at 1-1 and the third and penultimate Test was underway, Cameron Bancroft, David Warner and then Aussie skipper Steve Smith were involved in a huge controversy when the former was caught hiding a sandpaper in his pocket during the third day's play.&nbsp;

After an investigation, it was revealed that Smith and Warner were aware of Bancroft hiding a sandpaper while fielding. As a result, the trio were banned by Cricket Australia (CA) and the captaincy baton was passed onto Tim Paine. Paine, in his autobiography&nbsp;&nbsp;'Tim Paine: The Price Paid', has now made a massive claim that the Faf du Plessis-led were also ball-tampering in the fourth and final Test, in&nbsp;Johannesburg.

"I saw it happen in the fourth Test of that series. Think about that. After everything that had happened in Cape Town, after all the headlines and bans and carry on,"&nbsp;Paine wrote in the book as quoted by&nbsp;ESPNcricnifo.&nbsp;"I was standing at the bowlers' end in the next Test when a shot came up on the screen of a South African player at mid-off having a huge crack at the ball."

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"The television director, who had played an active role in catching out Cam, immediately pulled the shot off the screen. We went to the umpires about it, which might seem a bit poor, but we'd been slaughtered and were convinced they'd been up to it since the first Test. But the footage got lost. As it would," the keeper-batter added.

The Sandpaper Gate is a dark phase in Australian cricket. Recently, then SA skipper&nbsp;Faf du Plessis,&nbsp;in his upcoming book, also stated that his team had spotted Australian team fiddling with the ball in the run-up to the Cape Town Test after he observed&nbsp;the 'insane reverse swing' Mitchell Starc was getting from the red cherry in the initial matches.

Eventually, SA thrashed Australia 3-1 to win the series but the four Tests are still vividly remembered for the ball-tampering saga.&nbsp;

Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018 made heads turn in the cricketing fraternity. After the series was tied at 1-1 and the third and penultimate Test was underway, Cameron Bancroft, David Warner and then Aussie skipper Steve Smith were involved in a huge controversy when the former was caught hiding a sandpaper in his pocket during the third day's play.

Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018 made heads turn in the cricketing fraternity. After the series was tied at 1-1 and the third and penultimate Test was underway, Cameron Bancroft, David Warner and then Aussie skipper Steve Smith were involved in a huge controversy when the former was caught hiding a sandpaper in his pocket during the third day's play. After an investigation, it was revealed that Smith and Warner were aware of Bancroft hiding a sandpaper while fielding. As a result, the trio were banned by Cricket Australia (CA) and the captaincy baton was passed onto Tim Paine. Paine, in his autobiography 'Tim Paine: The Price Paid', has now made a massive claim that the Faf du Plessis-led were also ball-tampering in the fourth and final Test, in Johannesburg. "I saw it happen in the fourth Test of that series. Think about that. After everything that had happened in Cape Town, after all the headlines and bans and carry on," Paine wrote in the book as quoted by ESPNcricnifo. "I was standing at the bowlers' end in the next Test when a shot came up on the screen of a South African player at mid-off having a huge crack at the ball." ALSO READ | 'To hell with the Spirit of the Game': Hardik Pandya shares his take on run out at non-striker's end "The television director, who had played an active role in catching out Cam, immediately pulled the shot off the screen. We went to the umpires about it, which might seem a bit poor, but we'd been slaughtered and were convinced they'd been up to it since the first Test. But the footage got lost. As it would," the keeper-batter added. The Sandpaper Gate is a dark phase in Australian cricket. Recently, then SA skipper Faf du Plessis, in his upcoming book, also stated that his team had spotted Australian team fiddling with the ball in the run-up to the Cape Town Test after he observed the 'insane reverse swing' Mitchell Starc was getting from the red cherry in the initial matches. Eventually, SA thrashed Australia 3-1 to win the series but the four Tests are still vividly remembered for the ball-tampering saga.

Saw a player having a crack: Tim Paine claims South Africa were ball-tampering after Newlands Test in 2018

South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule. Cricket South Africa (CSA) had asked to shift the series, which was scheduled for Hobart (Jan. 12), Sydney (Jan. 14) and Perth (Jan. 17), as it clashes with their new domestic Twenty20 competition.

"Unfortunately, due to the congested international schedule including the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, there are no alternative dates available," CA said in a statement on Wednesday. CA said South Africa had agreed that Australia would be awarded the competition points, pending approval from the International Cricket Council.

"CSA offered four options (for new dates). Unfortunately, and to our disappointment, none of these were acceptable to Cricket Australia," CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said in a statement on Wednesday. "As difficult as this decision has been, the long-term sustainability of our new T20 League is reliant on having all our domestic players available."

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South Africa`s forfeit could affect their chances of qualifying directly for next year's one-day World Cup in India. The Proteas are 11th in the World Cup Super League standings, with only the top seven teams apart from hosts India to qualify directly for the 10-team tournament.

"We are confident that our in-form Proteas team will garner the requisite points through the remaining games to secure automatic qualification," Moseki said. South Africa`s test team are scheduled to tour Australia for a three-match series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 17.

Australia pulled out of their test tour of South Africa last year citing heath risks amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a decision greeted by disappointment and frustration by Cricket South Africa.

South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule.

South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule. Cricket South Africa (CSA) had asked to shift the series, which was scheduled for Hobart (Jan. 12), Sydney (Jan. 14) and Perth (Jan. 17), as it clashes with their new domestic Twenty20 competition. "Unfortunately, due to the congested international schedule including the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, there are no alternative dates available," CA said in a statement on Wednesday. CA said South Africa had agreed that Australia would be awarded the competition points, pending approval from the International Cricket Council. "CSA offered four options (for new dates). Unfortunately, and to our disappointment, none of these were acceptable to Cricket Australia," CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said in a statement on Wednesday. "As difficult as this decision has been, the long-term sustainability of our new T20 League is reliant on having all our domestic players available." ALSO READ | Ukraine hopeful of ICC membership for game to survive in war-torn country South Africa`s forfeit could affect their chances of qualifying directly for next year's one-day World Cup in India. The Proteas are 11th in the World Cup Super League standings, with only the top seven teams apart from hosts India to qualify directly for the 10-team tournament. "We are confident that our in-form Proteas team will garner the requisite points through the remaining games to secure automatic qualification," Moseki said. South Africa`s test team are scheduled to tour Australia for a three-match series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 17. Australia pulled out of their test tour of South Africa last year citing heath risks amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a decision greeted by disappointment and frustration by Cricket South Africa.

South Africa pull out of Australia ODI series, putting 2023 World Cup qualification in a fix

Skipper Meg Lanning produced another masterclass, smashing an unbeaten 135 as six-time champions Australia continued their invincible run with a five-wicket thrashing of South Africa in the ICC Women's World Cup here on Tuesday.

Lanning scored her 15th ODI century with 15 hits to the fence and one maximum during her 130-ball unconquered innings to help Australia successfully chase down South Africa's total of 271 for 5 with 28 balls to spare at Basin Reserve.

Invited to bat, opener Laura Wolvaardt cracked a 134-ball 90, while skipper Sune Luus (52) notched another half-century as South Africa posted a decent total from their 50 overs.

However, it proved inadequate in the end as Lanning took control of Australia's chase and recorded her third World Cup century to lead her team to a comfortable victory.

The win further consolidated Australia's position at the top of the table with 12 points from six matches and they are likely to end at the top with just one match to go against Bangladesh in the league stage.

It was South Africa's first loss of the tournament. They remain second in the standings with 8 points from five games but are still in danger of missing out on the semifinals should they fail to win any of their final two matches against West Indies and India.

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The Australian innings was all about Lanning as the skipper showed her class with a true captain's knock that was one of her best innings of all time.

Opener Alyssa Healy (1) was out in the third over and Rachael Haynes (17) followed her back to the pavilion in the 11th when Mignon du Preez held on to a screamer in the outfield to leave Australia in a spot of bother at 45 for 2. However, Lanning showed little respect to the South Africa bowlers as she found the gaps with ease.

The Australia captain enjoyed a 60-run partnership with the reliable Beth Mooney (21) and then an even better one of 93 with all-rounder Tahlia McGrath (32) that put Australia in a dominant position to cruise home.

A back injury to Ellyse Perry was the only negative to come out of the win for Australia, with the veteran all-rounder bowling just three overs. She did not bat.

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Earlier, opener Wolvaardt continued her rich run of form, sharing 88 runs with Lizelle Lee (36) for the opening wicket, before forging a 91-run stand with skipper Luus (52).

Ash Gardner pulled off the catch of the tournament when she held on to a beauty in the outfield to dismiss du Preez (14), while Marizanne Kapp (30 not out off 21 balls) hit four boundaries to help boost South Africa's total. For the Proteas, seamer Shabnim Ismail (2/33) and spinner Chloe Tryon (2/44) snapped two wickets apiece.&nbsp;

Skipper Meg Lanning produced another masterclass, smashing an unbeaten 135 as six-time champions Australia continued their invincible run with a five-wicket thrashing of South Africa in the ICC Women's World Cup here on Tuesday.

Skipper Meg Lanning produced another masterclass, smashing an unbeaten 135 as six-time champions Australia continued their invincible run with a five-wicket thrashing of South Africa in the ICC Women's World Cup here on Tuesday. Lanning scored her 15th ODI century with 15 hits to the fence and one maximum during her 130-ball unconquered innings to help Australia successfully chase down South Africa's total of 271 for 5 with 28 balls to spare at Basin Reserve. Invited to bat, opener Laura Wolvaardt cracked a 134-ball 90, while skipper Sune Luus (52) notched another half-century as South Africa posted a decent total from their 50 overs. However, it proved inadequate in the end as Lanning took control of Australia's chase and recorded her third World Cup century to lead her team to a comfortable victory. The win further consolidated Australia's position at the top of the table with 12 points from six matches and they are likely to end at the top with just one match to go against Bangladesh in the league stage. It was South Africa's first loss of the tournament. They remain second in the standings with 8 points from five games but are still in danger of missing out on the semifinals should they fail to win any of their final two matches against West Indies and India. Also Read: EXPLAINED! Here's how India can qualify for CWC 2022 semi-finals after big win vs Bangladesh The Australian innings was all about Lanning as the skipper showed her class with a true captain's knock that was one of her best innings of all time. Opener Alyssa Healy (1) was out in the third over and Rachael Haynes (17) followed her back to the pavilion in the 11th when Mignon du Preez held on to a screamer in the outfield to leave Australia in a spot of bother at 45 for 2. However, Lanning showed little respect to the South Africa bowlers as she found the gaps with ease. The Australia captain enjoyed a 60-run partnership with the reliable Beth Mooney (21) and then an even better one of 93 with all-rounder Tahlia McGrath (32) that put Australia in a dominant position to cruise home. A back injury to Ellyse Perry was the only negative to come out of the win for Australia, with the veteran all-rounder bowling just three overs. She did not bat. Also Read: Rana, Bhatia shine as India thrash Bangladesh by 110 runs to keep semi-final hopes alive Earlier, opener Wolvaardt continued her rich run of form, sharing 88 runs with Lizelle Lee (36) for the opening wicket, before forging a 91-run stand with skipper Luus (52). Ash Gardner pulled off the catch of the tournament when she held on to a beauty in the outfield to dismiss du Preez (14), while Marizanne Kapp (30 not out off 21 balls) hit four boundaries to help boost South Africa's total. For the Proteas, seamer Shabnim Ismail (2/33) and spinner Chloe Tryon (2/44) snapped two wickets apiece.

Skipper Meg Lanning's 135 powers Australia to five-wicket win over South Africa in Women's World Cup 2022

Match 13 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Aaron Finch-led Australia (AUS) take on the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa (SA) on Saturday (October 23). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

This will be the first match of the Super-12 stage. Both the teams have never won T20 World Cup. South Africa have won both the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan whereas Australia won close match against New Zealand and lost to India.

All eyes would be set on Tabraiz Shamsi who is currently the ICC’s No.1 ranked bowler in T20Is. He has taken&nbsp;28 wickets in 17 T20Is this year.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: 

Where is the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa taking place? 

The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

What time does the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa begin? 

The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa begins at 3:30 PM IST on Saturday.

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa? 

The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between AUS vs SA will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

Match 13 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Aaron Finch-led Australia (AUS) take on the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa (SA) on Saturday (October 23). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Match 13 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Aaron Finch-led Australia (AUS) take on the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa (SA) on Saturday (October 23). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. This will be the first match of the Super-12 stage. Both the teams have never won T20 World Cup. South Africa have won both the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan whereas Australia won close match against New Zealand and lost to India. All eyes would be set on Tabraiz Shamsi who is currently the ICC’s No.1 ranked bowler in T20Is. He has taken 28 wickets in 17 T20Is this year. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa taking place? The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. What time does the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa begin? The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa begins at 3:30 PM IST on Saturday. Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa? The T20 World Cup match between Australia vs South Africa will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between AUS vs SA will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

T20 World Cup, AUS vs SA live streaming: When and where to watch Australia vs South Africa match?

Temba Bavuma, South Africa's captain, said&nbsp;that matches against Australia have always been full of fire&nbsp;for his side and that they would have a tough&nbsp;challenge in the T20 World Cup on Saturday. He went on to say that because Saturday's encounter at Sheikh Zayed Stadium is their tournament opener, they are eager&nbsp;to get off to a good start and get an early advantage.

In&nbsp;the&nbsp;pre-match&nbsp;press&nbsp;conference&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday,&nbsp;Bavuma&nbsp;remarked, "Matches or clashes against Australia have always been full of fire, and we don't expect it to be anything different tomorrow. Tomorrow being an opener for us, it's obviously a big game. We want to start off well. We want to hit the ground running and start to get that momentum rolling in our favour. But the guys, I believe, are in a good space."&nbsp;

"I must be honest, there is a bit of anxiety amongst the guys, there is a bit of butterflies, and I think that's something that's expected. In terms of coming up against Australia, there's no motivation, no bigger motivation for the guys," added Bavuma.

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Bavuma and left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have both confirmed their availability for Saturday's opener.&nbsp;"On my side, the fitness is good. I obviously managed to get through the two games unscathed. The hand held up nicely, so I'm all good to go. Shamsi as well, I understand that he's also good to go. He did pass his fitness test today. So he`s good. I`m good as well."

South Africa's batting, particularly the middle order, according to Bavuma, must put up a strong fight against Australia's bowlers. He also stated that his bowlers will want to dismiss&nbsp;the Australian top-order as fast as possible.

"Obviously, their bowling attack is quite strong. I think having played them in the past, their type of team they look to strike upfront, really try to get into that middle-order. So I think from our point of view with the bat, we want to make sure we play there powerful as well as we can so we don't allow them to kind of get into our middle-order with their slow bowlers."

"With the bat, I think they're quite top-heavy. Guys like Finch, guys like Warner, Smith at the top. So we're also obviously looking to strike upfront and put their middle batters under pressure. The earlier we can get those guys in, I feel the more we can put them under pressure. But I think their side, they've got good resources, fast bowling, slow bowling, as well as from a batting point of view. So I think it will be a good encounter."

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The 31-year-old had slow innings in the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan, batting 31 off 39 balls and 46 off 42 balls, respectively, after recovering from a thumb fracture sustained during the white-ball series against Sri Lanka.

When&nbsp;asked&nbsp;about&nbsp;it,&nbsp;Bavuma&nbsp;replied, "I think from my side, not having played cricket for quite a while, that probably contributed to that. I think it was also adjusting to the conditions and I guess trying to formulate a game plan that was also part of that. I think probably being out of the game for quite a while, that was probably the main contributor."

Talking about the importance of starting off big tournaments on a winning note, Bavuma remarked, "It's always good to start off well. You want to throw that first punch in early on and try to ride with that momentum as much as you can. I think the way the tournament is also set up with only five games in the group stages, you don't really have time to be behind the eight ball. We`ll be looking to really hit the ground running. Tomorrow (we will) play our best cricket and take it from there."

Temba Bavuma, South Africa's captain, said that matches against Australia have always been full of fire for his side and that they would have a tough challenge in the T20 World Cup on Saturday.

Temba Bavuma, South Africa's captain, said that matches against Australia have always been full of fire for his side and that they would have a tough challenge in the T20 World Cup on Saturday. He went on to say that because Saturday's encounter at Sheikh Zayed Stadium is their tournament opener, they are eager to get off to a good start and get an early advantage. In the pre-match press conference on Friday, Bavuma remarked, "Matches or clashes against Australia have always been full of fire, and we don't expect it to be anything different tomorrow. Tomorrow being an opener for us, it's obviously a big game. We want to start off well. We want to hit the ground running and start to get that momentum rolling in our favour. But the guys, I believe, are in a good space." "I must be honest, there is a bit of anxiety amongst the guys, there is a bit of butterflies, and I think that's something that's expected. In terms of coming up against Australia, there's no motivation, no bigger motivation for the guys," added Bavuma. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Sunil Gavaskar decodes reasons behind India's failures in ICC knockouts Bavuma and left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have both confirmed their availability for Saturday's opener. "On my side, the fitness is good. I obviously managed to get through the two games unscathed. The hand held up nicely, so I'm all good to go. Shamsi as well, I understand that he's also good to go. He did pass his fitness test today. So he`s good. I`m good as well." South Africa's batting, particularly the middle order, according to Bavuma, must put up a strong fight against Australia's bowlers. He also stated that his bowlers will want to dismiss the Australian top-order as fast as possible. "Obviously, their bowling attack is quite strong. I think having played them in the past, their type of team they look to strike upfront, really try to get into that middle-order. So I think from our point of view with the bat, we want to make sure we play there powerful as well as we can so we don't allow them to kind of get into our middle-order with their slow bowlers." "With the bat, I think they're quite top-heavy. Guys like Finch, guys like Warner, Smith at the top. So we're also obviously looking to strike upfront and put their middle batters under pressure. The earlier we can get those guys in, I feel the more we can put them under pressure. But I think their side, they've got good resources, fast bowling, slow bowling, as well as from a batting point of view. So I think it will be a good encounter." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli might go bonkers with the bat after stepping aside as India's T20I captain: Wasim Akram The 31-year-old had slow innings in the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan, batting 31 off 39 balls and 46 off 42 balls, respectively, after recovering from a thumb fracture sustained during the white-ball series against Sri Lanka. When asked about it, Bavuma replied, "I think from my side, not having played cricket for quite a while, that probably contributed to that. I think it was also adjusting to the conditions and I guess trying to formulate a game plan that was also part of that. I think probably being out of the game for quite a while, that was probably the main contributor." Talking about the importance of starting off big tournaments on a winning note, Bavuma remarked, "It's always good to start off well. You want to throw that first punch in early on and try to ride with that momentum as much as you can. I think the way the tournament is also set up with only five games in the group stages, you don't really have time to be behind the eight ball. We`ll be looking to really hit the ground running. Tomorrow (we will) play our best cricket and take it from there."

T20 WC: Matches against Australia have always been full of fire, says South African captain Temba Bavuma

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23). Both Australia and South Africa have been heavyweights in Tests and ODIs, however, they are yet to dominate the shortest format.

Over the years, the two teams have produced some thrilling encounters between them and have gotten the better of each other on several occasions. They are placed in Group 1 along with the likes of West Indies, England and Bangladesh. Both teams will be looking to get off to a winning start and get the advantage in the race for the semi-finals.

For Australia, the form of the likes of David Warner and skipper Finch will be a concern. While Finch played his last T20I game in July this year and did not feature in IPL 2021, Warner endured a poor run in the IPL and could only manage eight appearances throughout the season.&nbsp;

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh will also be making his comeback after a long period of inactivity. Australia's chances will depend on the performances of all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis who possess the ability to change the course of a game with both the bat and the ball.

On the other hand, South Africa skipper Bavuma returned to the playing XI after a gap of 50 days when he featured in the practice game against Pakistan on Wednesday where he scored 46 off 42 balls. Rassie van der Dussen played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 101 off 51 balls and was the stand out performer for the Proteas. He will be looking to carry his purple patch against the Aussies on Saturday.

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South Africa's potent fast bowling line-up consisting of the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi can also create problems for the Aussie batters in the opening encounter in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

Australia vs South Africa today match prediction:

Australia are heading into the clash after facing a comprehensive 9-wicket defeat against India in their last warm-up match while South Africa thrashed Pakistan by six wickets in their practice game. Australia lead the head-to-head record between the two teams with 13 wins in 22 matches but South Africa can pull off a surprise win on Saturday.

&nbsp;

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23).

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23). Both Australia and South Africa have been heavyweights in Tests and ODIs, however, they are yet to dominate the shortest format. Over the years, the two teams have produced some thrilling encounters between them and have gotten the better of each other on several occasions. They are placed in Group 1 along with the likes of West Indies, England and Bangladesh. Both teams will be looking to get off to a winning start and get the advantage in the race for the semi-finals. For Australia, the form of the likes of David Warner and skipper Finch will be a concern. While Finch played his last T20I game in July this year and did not feature in IPL 2021, Warner endured a poor run in the IPL and could only manage eight appearances throughout the season. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh will also be making his comeback after a long period of inactivity. Australia's chances will depend on the performances of all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis who possess the ability to change the course of a game with both the bat and the ball. On the other hand, South Africa skipper Bavuma returned to the playing XI after a gap of 50 days when he featured in the practice game against Pakistan on Wednesday where he scored 46 off 42 balls. Rassie van der Dussen played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 101 off 51 balls and was the stand out performer for the Proteas. He will be looking to carry his purple patch against the Aussies on Saturday. Also Read: Want to see India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 final, says Sunil Gavaskar South Africa's potent fast bowling line-up consisting of the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi can also create problems for the Aussie batters in the opening encounter in Abu Dhabi. Australia vs South Africa today match prediction: Australia are heading into the clash after facing a comprehensive 9-wicket defeat against India in their last warm-up match while South Africa thrashed Pakistan by six wickets in their practice game. Australia lead the head-to-head record between the two teams with 13 wins in 22 matches but South Africa can pull off a surprise win on Saturday.

AUS vs SA, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction today: Who will win Australia vs South Africa match?

Australia beat South Africa by five wickets in their opening Super 12 Group 1 match of the T20 World Cup here on Saturday. 
Australia chased down the target of 119 in 19.4 overs with Steve Smith scoring 34-ball 35.

For South Africa, Anrich Nortje took two wickets while Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi got one each.

Earlier, Electing to bowl, Australia restricted South Africa to a meagre 118 for nine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-trying-to-dig-something-virat-kohli-on-decision-to-leave-t20i-captaincy-423328">'People are trying to dig something': Virat Kohli on decision to leave T20I captaincy</a>

Aiden Markram scored 40 for the Proteas after their top-order crumbled. Kagiso Rabada was the next best batter for them with an unbeaten 19-run knock at number eight.

Fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood (2/19) and Mithcell Starc (2/31) took two wickets apiece while spinner Adam Zampa (2/21) also accounted for two batters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-kaif-weighs-in-on-virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-debate-ahead-of-indo-pak-clash-423263">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash</a>

Brief Scores:

South Africa: 118 for 9 in 20 overs. (A Markram 40, K Rabada 19 not out; J Hazlewood 2/19, A Zampa 2/21).

Australia: 121 for 5 in 19.4 overs (Steve Smith 35, Anrich Nortje 2/21).&nbsp;

Australia beat South Africa by five wickets in their opening Super 12 Group 1 match of the T20 World Cup here on Saturday. Australia chased down the target of 119 in 19.

Australia beat South Africa by five wickets in their opening Super 12 Group 1 match of the T20 World Cup here on Saturday. Australia chased down the target of 119 in 19.4 overs with Steve Smith scoring 34-ball 35. For South Africa, Anrich Nortje took two wickets while Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi got one each. Earlier, Electing to bowl, Australia restricted South Africa to a meagre 118 for nine. ALSO READ | 'People are trying to dig something': Virat Kohli on decision to leave T20I captaincy Aiden Markram scored 40 for the Proteas after their top-order crumbled. Kagiso Rabada was the next best batter for them with an unbeaten 19-run knock at number eight. Fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood (2/19) and Mithcell Starc (2/31) took two wickets apiece while spinner Adam Zampa (2/21) also accounted for two batters. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash Brief Scores: South Africa: 118 for 9 in 20 overs. (A Markram 40, K Rabada 19 not out; J Hazlewood 2/19, A Zampa 2/21). Australia: 121 for 5 in 19.4 overs (Steve Smith 35, Anrich Nortje 2/21).

T20 World Cup: Australia beat South Africa by 5 wickets in first Super 12 match

Test cricket, or cricket, by and large, can be characterized from various perspectives like versatility, assurance, persistence, and so on in any case, to be depicted as wonderful it should be at its imperious best, and trust me, it was at its imperious best when Dale Steyn stood the beginning of his run-up.&nbsp;

It's anything but an occasion was going to occur; cataclysmic in the event that you were a batsman yet happy on the off chance that you adored the immaculateness of the art of quick bowling. Dale 'Gun'&nbsp;Steyn didn't simply bowl fast, he adorned and improved the craft of fast bowling.

Significance as per me doesn't rely upon stats; rather, it relies upon the effect a player had on the game or the effect a player had on a specific part of the actual game. What's more, no other player affects the specialty of fast bowling in the 21st century like Dale Steyn.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-t20-world-cup-set-to-begin-on-october-17-in-the-uae-reports-394064" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup set to begin on October 17 in the UAE: Reports</a>

There was incredible cricketing sentimentalism in watching Dale Steyn take a gander at the red cherry and tenderly hold it at the finger-end of his right hand, keeping up that hole between the palm and the ball for the swing and seam position. He was cut from an alternate material. He was notably better than the rest. He was the just one of his age who could swing at pace; genuine speed.&nbsp;

Bowling 150kph in the first session of a Test match is a standard, however, bowling it for the duration of the day? That takes some energy, and Dale Steyn had that. He in&nbsp;a real sense threatened the batsmen, and it didn't make any difference on the off chance that they were acceptable or incredible.

Dale Steyn's bowling was maybe most appropriate to Test cricket. He has been able to swing the ball the two different ways, and that too at express speed. His deadly out-pleasure seekers and his celebrations were a wellspring of delight for fans from one side of the planet to the other.&nbsp;He is the solitary bowler to have a five-wicket pull against each of the nine Test-playing countries. Dale Steyn completed as the main wicket-taker for South Africa in Tests with 439 wickets from 93 Test matches.&nbsp;

<h2>10 wickets against Australia in 2008&nbsp;</h2>

This must be positioned among the best exhibitions ever by a fast bowler in Test cricket. Dale Steyn was rapidly acquiring a major standing in the cricketing scene and later came to his greatest test against Australia in 2008. The Aussies had lost the first Test at Perth however Dale Steyn didn't do much in that match. In the second Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, however, Dale Steyn demonstrated his courage by asserting 10 wickets across the two innings.&nbsp;

In the first innings, DaleSteyn started procedures by dismissing out the hotshot Michael Hussey for a duck, as Michael Hussey edged behind.&nbsp;

In the subsequent innings, Dale Steyn eliminated both the openers to obliterate any expectations of an Aussie fightback. What's more, exactly when the Aussies fired setting up some obstruction, Dale Steyn turned the match by and by with a two-wicket over, dismissing the very much set Michael Clarke and Andrew Symonds.&nbsp;

South Africa pursued down the objective of 183 runs effortlessly and guaranteed a renowned series win Down Under. Dale Steyn had a match haul of 10 for 154.&nbsp;

<h2>7/51 against India in 2010&nbsp;</h2>

Dale Steyn was a bowler for all conditions. In addition to the fact that he tormented batsmen in Australia, England, and South Africa, he was similarly compelling in the sub-mainland too. He was especially threatening in India, alarming the Indian batsmen with his reverse swing.&nbsp;

In the first Test of the two-match series against India at Nagpur in 2010, Dale Steyn unleashed devastation. He initially set up Murali Vijay, who bore arms to an in-swinger just to hear the stumps clatter. Close to go was India's batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who was left hoodwinked by a late out-swinger which he could just edge behind to the wicketkeeper.&nbsp;

He in the long run got done with figures of 7/51, which were noteworthy for a quick bowler in the sub-continent.&nbsp;

Watching Dale Steyn bowl was a pleasure; it was delightful and rich, despite the fact that it was additionally deadly. Watching him approaching the wrinkle to convey thunderclaps were however energizing and thrilling as it very well might be to hop off a precipice. It was anything but an incredible sight.&nbsp;

Test cricket, or cricket, by and large, can be characterized from various perspectives like versatility, assurance, persistence, and so on in any case, to be depicted as wonderful it should be at its imperious best, and trust me, it was at its imperious best when Dale Steyn stood the beginning of his run-up.

Test cricket, or cricket, by and large, can be characterized from various perspectives like versatility, assurance, persistence, and so on in any case, to be depicted as wonderful it should be at its imperious best, and trust me, it was at its imperious best when Dale Steyn stood the beginning of his run-up. It's anything but an occasion was going to occur; cataclysmic in the event that you were a batsman yet happy on the off chance that you adored the immaculateness of the art of quick bowling. Dale 'Gun' Steyn didn't simply bowl fast, he adorned and improved the craft of fast bowling. Significance as per me doesn't rely upon stats; rather, it relies upon the effect a player had on the game or the effect a player had on a specific part of the actual game. What's more, no other player affects the specialty of fast bowling in the 21st century like Dale Steyn. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup set to begin on October 17 in the UAE: Reports There was incredible cricketing sentimentalism in watching Dale Steyn take a gander at the red cherry and tenderly hold it at the finger-end of his right hand, keeping up that hole between the palm and the ball for the swing and seam position. He was cut from an alternate material. He was notably better than the rest. He was the just one of his age who could swing at pace; genuine speed. Bowling 150kph in the first session of a Test match is a standard, however, bowling it for the duration of the day? That takes some energy, and Dale Steyn had that. He in a real sense threatened the batsmen, and it didn't make any difference on the off chance that they were acceptable or incredible. Dale Steyn's bowling was maybe most appropriate to Test cricket. He has been able to swing the ball the two different ways, and that too at express speed. His deadly out-pleasure seekers and his celebrations were a wellspring of delight for fans from one side of the planet to the other. He is the solitary bowler to have a five-wicket pull against each of the nine Test-playing countries. Dale Steyn completed as the main wicket-taker for South Africa in Tests with 439 wickets from 93 Test matches. 10 wickets against Australia in 2008 This must be positioned among the best exhibitions ever by a fast bowler in Test cricket. Dale Steyn was rapidly acquiring a major standing in the cricketing scene and later came to his greatest test against Australia in 2008. The Aussies had lost the first Test at Perth however Dale Steyn didn't do much in that match. In the second Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, however, Dale Steyn demonstrated his courage by asserting 10 wickets across the two innings. In the first innings, DaleSteyn started procedures by dismissing out the hotshot Michael Hussey for a duck, as Michael Hussey edged behind. In the subsequent innings, Dale Steyn eliminated both the openers to obliterate any expectations of an Aussie fightback. What's more, exactly when the Aussies fired setting up some obstruction, Dale Steyn turned the match by and by with a two-wicket over, dismissing the very much set Michael Clarke and Andrew Symonds. South Africa pursued down the objective of 183 runs effortlessly and guaranteed a renowned series win Down Under. Dale Steyn had a match haul of 10 for 154. 7/51 against India in 2010 Dale Steyn was a bowler for all conditions. In addition to the fact that he tormented batsmen in Australia, England, and South Africa, he was similarly compelling in the sub-mainland too. He was especially threatening in India, alarming the Indian batsmen with his reverse swing. In the first Test of the two-match series against India at Nagpur in 2010, Dale Steyn unleashed devastation. He initially set up Murali Vijay, who bore arms to an in-swinger just to hear the stumps clatter. Close to go was India's batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who was left hoodwinked by a late out-swinger which he could just edge behind to the wicketkeeper. He in the long run got done with figures of 7/51, which were noteworthy for a quick bowler in the sub-continent. Watching Dale Steyn bowl was a pleasure; it was delightful and rich, despite the fact that it was additionally deadly. Watching him approaching the wrinkle to convey thunderclaps were however energizing and thrilling as it very well might be to hop off a precipice. It was anything but an incredible sight.

Dale Steyn: One of the greatest fast bowlers to have played Test cricket

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.&nbsp;

The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3,&nbsp;has been called off.&nbsp;

South Africa is being hit&nbsp;severely&nbsp;by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent.&nbsp;Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

Now, India&nbsp;need&nbsp;to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia.&nbsp;

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Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 <a href="https://t.co/mYjqNpkYjp">pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1356538583071420417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-allowed-at-50-per-cent-capacity-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-360809" hreflang="en">Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test</a>

<h2>Cricket Australia statement:&nbsp;</h2>

“Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley.&nbsp;

“We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen.&nbsp;

“This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

“However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time.&nbsp;

“As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised.&nbsp;

“We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India. The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3, has been called off. South Africa is being hit severely by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent. Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team Now, India need to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia. Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) February 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test Cricket Australia statement: “Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley. “We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen. “This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship. “However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time. “As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised. “We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”

Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat

Matthew Wade was axed Wednesday for Australia's Test series in South Africa after failing to fire against India, while under-pressure Tim Paine retained the captaincy.

Wade played all four games in the tense 2-1 home summer series loss to India, including two as makeshift opener in place of the injured David Warner.

But he managed just 173 from his eight innings, with some rash shots ultimately costing him his place in the side and seeing him replaced by Alex Carey as back-up wicketkeeper.

Instead, Wade will join Australia's Twenty20 squad on their tour of New Zealand as vice-captain to the out-of-form Aaron Finch.

Australia are due to play three Tests in South Africa. The tour was originally scheduled for February and March, but the dates have yet to be locked in due to concerns over coronavirus.

Cricket Australia Wednesday reiterated its commitment to making the trip, with the Tests expected to take place in March or April.&nbsp;

The five-game T20 tour of New Zealand runs from February 22 to March 7, clashing with South Africa, meaning a host of players including Warner, Steve Smith and Pat Cummins were not available.

Wade was the main casualty from the India series, with the squad otherwise much the same.

Uncapped bowlers Sean Abbott, Michael Neser, and Mitchell Swepson are again included, with fellow quick Mark Steketee and Carey the only newcomers.

Carey's inclusion was seen as significant, with the 29-year-old, who has excelled for Australia in limited overs internationals, tipped as a potential successor as captain to Paine, 36.

Paine had a sub-par series against India, particularly the last two Tests when he dropped a slew of chances and came under fire over his bowling changes, field placings and decisions on when to declare.

He was also fined for an expletive-laden rant at an umpire and forced to apologise after an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin, all of which put his captaincy under the microscope.

<h2>- 'Wide of the mark' -</h2>

But National Selector Trevor Hohns insisted Paine was still the right man for the job.

"Tim Paine was excellent at number seven against India and as a batsman, wicketkeeper and captain still has much to offer in the Test arena," he said.

Cricket Australia's National Teams chief Ben Oliver also gave Paine his backing.

"Tim has the support of the team, the coach and everyone else at Cricket Australia and the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series has done nothing to diminish that," he said.

"After a series that attracted so much global interest, it was inevitable there'd be scrutiny. But some of the commentary surrounding Tim and his position as Test captain has been wide of the mark."

The absence of several T20 regulars opened the door for some fresh faces to make the trip to New Zealand, with three uncapped players in the squad including teenage leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha.

The other rookies are opener and gloveman Josh Philippe and fast bowler Riley Meredith.

Paceman Jhye Richardson and Jason Behrendorff and spinner Ashton Agar make their return to Australian colours after lengthy injury layoffs.

&nbsp;

Test squad for South Africa: Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

T20 squad for New Zealand: Aaron Finch (capt), Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, D'Arcy Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa

Matthew Wade was axed Wednesday for Australia's Test series in South Africa after failing to fire against India, while under-pressure Tim Paine retained the captaincy.

Matthew Wade was axed Wednesday for Australia's Test series in South Africa after failing to fire against India, while under-pressure Tim Paine retained the captaincy. Wade played all four games in the tense 2-1 home summer series loss to India, including two as makeshift opener in place of the injured David Warner. But he managed just 173 from his eight innings, with some rash shots ultimately costing him his place in the side and seeing him replaced by Alex Carey as back-up wicketkeeper. Instead, Wade will join Australia's Twenty20 squad on their tour of New Zealand as vice-captain to the out-of-form Aaron Finch. Australia are due to play three Tests in South Africa. The tour was originally scheduled for February and March, but the dates have yet to be locked in due to concerns over coronavirus. Cricket Australia Wednesday reiterated its commitment to making the trip, with the Tests expected to take place in March or April. The five-game T20 tour of New Zealand runs from February 22 to March 7, clashing with South Africa, meaning a host of players including Warner, Steve Smith and Pat Cummins were not available. Wade was the main casualty from the India series, with the squad otherwise much the same. Uncapped bowlers Sean Abbott, Michael Neser, and Mitchell Swepson are again included, with fellow quick Mark Steketee and Carey the only newcomers. Carey's inclusion was seen as significant, with the 29-year-old, who has excelled for Australia in limited overs internationals, tipped as a potential successor as captain to Paine, 36. Paine had a sub-par series against India, particularly the last two Tests when he dropped a slew of chances and came under fire over his bowling changes, field placings and decisions on when to declare. He was also fined for an expletive-laden rant at an umpire and forced to apologise after an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin, all of which put his captaincy under the microscope. - 'Wide of the mark' - But National Selector Trevor Hohns insisted Paine was still the right man for the job. "Tim Paine was excellent at number seven against India and as a batsman, wicketkeeper and captain still has much to offer in the Test arena," he said. Cricket Australia's National Teams chief Ben Oliver also gave Paine his backing. "Tim has the support of the team, the coach and everyone else at Cricket Australia and the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series has done nothing to diminish that," he said. "After a series that attracted so much global interest, it was inevitable there'd be scrutiny. But some of the commentary surrounding Tim and his position as Test captain has been wide of the mark." The absence of several T20 regulars opened the door for some fresh faces to make the trip to New Zealand, with three uncapped players in the squad including teenage leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha. The other rookies are opener and gloveman Josh Philippe and fast bowler Riley Meredith. Paceman Jhye Richardson and Jason Behrendorff and spinner Ashton Agar make their return to Australian colours after lengthy injury layoffs. Test squad for South Africa: Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner T20 squad for New Zealand: Aaron Finch (capt), Matthew Wade, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, D'Arcy Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa

Australia axe Wade, keep Paine as captain for South Africa Test tour

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India.

India beat Australia by three wickets at the Gabba on Tuesday, the first time since 1988 the Australians have lost a Test in Brisbane.

The win ensured the tourists claimed the series 2-1 and retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy they won in Australia in 2018-19.

Paine conceded he was below par in the last two Tests.

He dropped a number of chances on the final day in Sydney, when India batted all day to salvage a draw, and missed a stumping on the last day in Brisbane as Rishabh Pant led India to a stunning victory.

Paine also came under heavy criticism from a number of former players over his bowling changes, field placings and his decisions on when to declare.

But he said that he had no intention of stepping down and would take Australia to South Africa in February.

"I'm still looking forward to going to South Africa to try and win a series there," Paine said.

"We had a goal to make the Test championship final -- that's still achievable and it's a goal for me and the group."

India are now top of the Test championship table, with New Zealand second and Australia third.

The series against South Africa is the last chance Australia have of reaching the top two and making the August final at Lords.

Paine was also forced to fend off criticism from former Australian great Adam Gilchrist that he couldn't captain effectively and keep wicket as well.

"I think I had an ordinary day in Sydney, I'll cop that on the chin," Paine said.

"It doesn't always go your way in cricket or in life so for me it's about soldiering on.

"I said a few times I have improvement in me, I still feel like I want to get better and I certainly want to keep leading this team."

Paine was appointed captain and wicketkeeper after the ball tampering scandal in South Africa, which led to Steve Smith being stood down as captain and suspended for 12 months.

"I'm loving the job. I'm going to cop heaps of flak I know that," he said.

"I've been absolutely belted by the Indians over the last seven days -- that's been interesting.

"But that's par for the course for this job."

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India.

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India. India beat Australia by three wickets at the Gabba on Tuesday, the first time since 1988 the Australians have lost a Test in Brisbane. The win ensured the tourists claimed the series 2-1 and retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy they won in Australia in 2018-19. Paine conceded he was below par in the last two Tests. He dropped a number of chances on the final day in Sydney, when India batted all day to salvage a draw, and missed a stumping on the last day in Brisbane as Rishabh Pant led India to a stunning victory. Paine also came under heavy criticism from a number of former players over his bowling changes, field placings and his decisions on when to declare. But he said that he had no intention of stepping down and would take Australia to South Africa in February. "I'm still looking forward to going to South Africa to try and win a series there," Paine said. "We had a goal to make the Test championship final -- that's still achievable and it's a goal for me and the group." India are now top of the Test championship table, with New Zealand second and Australia third. The series against South Africa is the last chance Australia have of reaching the top two and making the August final at Lords. Paine was also forced to fend off criticism from former Australian great Adam Gilchrist that he couldn't captain effectively and keep wicket as well. "I think I had an ordinary day in Sydney, I'll cop that on the chin," Paine said. "It doesn't always go your way in cricket or in life so for me it's about soldiering on. "I said a few times I have improvement in me, I still feel like I want to get better and I certainly want to keep leading this team." Paine was appointed captain and wicketkeeper after the ball tampering scandal in South Africa, which led to Steve Smith being stood down as captain and suspended for 12 months. "I'm loving the job. I'm going to cop heaps of flak I know that," he said. "I've been absolutely belted by the Indians over the last seven days -- that's been interesting. "But that's par for the course for this job."

Defiant Paine wants to lead Australia to South Africa

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis won the toss and decided to bat against Australia in the concluding group match of the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Reigning champions Australia have already qualified for the semi-finals, while South Africa cannot make it through to the last four.

But if Australia win they will be guaranteed to finish top of the 10-team round-robin, regardless of whether India beat Sri Lanka in Leeds in Saturday's earlier match.

Victory would see Australia remain in Manchester for an Old Trafford semi-final against fourth-placed New Zealand on Tuesday and avoid both hosts England and India -- the only team to have defeated them at the tournament so far.

Australia were unchanged from the side that thrashed New Zealand by 86 runs in a group match at Lord's last Saturday.

That meant Steve Smith and David Warner were playing against South Africa for the first time since the batsmen received 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal during a Test in Cape Town last year.

South Africa were forced into making one change to the side that beat Sri Lanka by nine wickets after veteran opener Hashim Amla was ruled out with a knee injury suffered while taking part in a warm-up game of football on Friday.

Aiden Markram was promoted to open alongside Quinton de Kock, with left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi called into the side.

The match will be the last one-day international for South Africa's JP Duminy and Imran Tahir before they retire from the format.&nbsp;

Teams:

Australia: Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey (wkt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Lyon

South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wkt), Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis (capt), Rassie van der Dussen, JP Duminy, Dwaine Pretorius, Andile Phehlukwayo, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis won the toss and decided to bat against Australia in the concluding group match of the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford on Saturday.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis won the toss and decided to bat against Australia in the concluding group match of the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford on Saturday. Reigning champions Australia have already qualified for the semi-finals, while South Africa cannot make it through to the last four. But if Australia win they will be guaranteed to finish top of the 10-team round-robin, regardless of whether India beat Sri Lanka in Leeds in Saturday's earlier match. Victory would see Australia remain in Manchester for an Old Trafford semi-final against fourth-placed New Zealand on Tuesday and avoid both hosts England and India -- the only team to have defeated them at the tournament so far. Australia were unchanged from the side that thrashed New Zealand by 86 runs in a group match at Lord's last Saturday. That meant Steve Smith and David Warner were playing against South Africa for the first time since the batsmen received 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal during a Test in Cape Town last year. South Africa were forced into making one change to the side that beat Sri Lanka by nine wickets after veteran opener Hashim Amla was ruled out with a knee injury suffered while taking part in a warm-up game of football on Friday. Aiden Markram was promoted to open alongside Quinton de Kock, with left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi called into the side. The match will be the last one-day international for South Africa's JP Duminy and Imran Tahir before they retire from the format. Teams: Australia: Aaron Finch (capt), David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey (wkt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Lyon South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wkt), Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis (capt), Rassie van der Dussen, JP Duminy, Dwaine Pretorius, Andile Phehlukwayo, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi

World Cup: South Africa opt to bat first against Australia

Australia paceman Pat Cummins has fired a warning at the nation's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup</a> rivals, saying the champions may have "clicked" but are yet to put in a complete performance at the global showpiece.

Aaron Finch's Australia booked their place in the semi-finals early with a comprehensive win over England and carried on the form with another convincing victory over New Zealand at Lord's on Saturday.

A relaxed Australia will head into their final round-robin match against already-eliminated South Africa in Manchester on Saturday with the benefit of a week's rest before bigger tests await.

"I think just everything's clicked, the batting, the bowling, our game plan is the way we've wanted to play," Cummins told reporters.

"Even just everyone being comfortable in their roles and comfortable around each other. I think it takes time but everyone's in a really good place.

"The thing we have spoken about, we have managed to scrape home wins without really putting through a complete performance," Cummins added.

"With each game, we have got a little bit better."

Led by pace spearhead Mitchell Starc, Australia's quicks have bowled superbly throughout the tournament but have gone up a level in recent matches, skittling England's vaunted batting lineup for 221 before routing New Zealand for 157.

Jason Behrendorff's promotion to open the bowling with Starc, with Cummins switched to first change bowler, has been key to the improvement.

Cummins has only nabbed one wicket from the last two matches but has proved highly effective at keeping the batsmen pinned down during the middle overs.

He captured veteran Ross Taylor's wicket and conceded a miserly 14 runs from his six overs' work against New Zealand.

"I think it's a massive change," he said of the shift from new ball to first change bowler. "I think it's a lot different to say red ball cricket where the ball kind of stays hard and there might be some swing on offer.

"I think it's kind of outside of those first eight to 10 overs, there is no swing, the ball is not as hard, normally the batters are set.

"Jason and Starcy have been brilliant up front. My role is to just try and hold them a little bit and hopefully they take a risk. It (feels) like I have done that job pretty well."

The match against South Africa will be a dead rubber but also the first that opener David Warner and former skipper Steve Smith have had against Faf du Plessis's side since they were suspended for ball-tampering during the Cape Town test in March, 2018.

Warner and Smith, whose one-year ban expired at the end of March, have been jeered at stadiums throughout the tournament but have not let it affect them, with the former leading the tournament's runs list with 516 and the latter chipping in 287.

Cummins did not feel the ball-tampering history would add much significance to the Proteas game.

"I know Dave and Smithy have played quite a bit with (South Africa's players) in IPL and played heaps of times before so I wouldn't have thought so," he said.

Australia paceman Pat Cummins has fired a warning at the nation's Cricket World Cup rivals, saying the champions may have "clicked" but are yet to put in a complete performance at the global showpiece.

Australia paceman Pat Cummins has fired a warning at the nation's Cricket World Cup rivals, saying the champions may have "clicked" but are yet to put in a complete performance at the global showpiece. Aaron Finch's Australia booked their place in the semi-finals early with a comprehensive win over England and carried on the form with another convincing victory over New Zealand at Lord's on Saturday. A relaxed Australia will head into their final round-robin match against already-eliminated South Africa in Manchester on Saturday with the benefit of a week's rest before bigger tests await. "I think just everything's clicked, the batting, the bowling, our game plan is the way we've wanted to play," Cummins told reporters. "Even just everyone being comfortable in their roles and comfortable around each other. I think it takes time but everyone's in a really good place. "The thing we have spoken about, we have managed to scrape home wins without really putting through a complete performance," Cummins added. "With each game, we have got a little bit better." Led by pace spearhead Mitchell Starc, Australia's quicks have bowled superbly throughout the tournament but have gone up a level in recent matches, skittling England's vaunted batting lineup for 221 before routing New Zealand for 157. Jason Behrendorff's promotion to open the bowling with Starc, with Cummins switched to first change bowler, has been key to the improvement. Cummins has only nabbed one wicket from the last two matches but has proved highly effective at keeping the batsmen pinned down during the middle overs. He captured veteran Ross Taylor's wicket and conceded a miserly 14 runs from his six overs' work against New Zealand. "I think it's a massive change," he said of the shift from new ball to first change bowler. "I think it's a lot different to say red ball cricket where the ball kind of stays hard and there might be some swing on offer. "I think it's kind of outside of those first eight to 10 overs, there is no swing, the ball is not as hard, normally the batters are set. "Jason and Starcy have been brilliant up front. My role is to just try and hold them a little bit and hopefully they take a risk. It (feels) like I have done that job pretty well." The match against South Africa will be a dead rubber but also the first that opener David Warner and former skipper Steve Smith have had against Faf du Plessis's side since they were suspended for ball-tampering during the Cape Town test in March, 2018. Warner and Smith, whose one-year ban expired at the end of March, have been jeered at stadiums throughout the tournament but have not let it affect them, with the former leading the tournament's runs list with 516 and the latter chipping in 287. Cummins did not feel the ball-tampering history would add much significance to the Proteas game. "I know Dave and Smithy have played quite a bit with (South Africa's players) in IPL and played heaps of times before so I wouldn't have thought so," he said.

Australia's Pat Cummins issues warning to World Cup rivals

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series.

The two sides meet in Perth on Sunday for the first time since the Test series in South Africa this year boiled over with Australian players attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper.

The cheating saw Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned, while David Lehmann quit as coach. Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has since left and chairman David Peever fell on his sword on Thursday.

Langer, Lehmann's replacement, has pledged to change the win-at-all-costs culture and said he hoped the first game of the summer at home would be a step in winning back fans.

"It's sad, isn't it. Everyone seems to be at each other. There's lots of criticism," he said of the atmosphere surrounding Australian cricket.

"What we can do is we can prepare well, we can play good cricket, and be entertaining and put on a good show so Australians can start smiling a bit.

"One thing sport can do and the Australian cricket can do is put smiles on faces rather than everyone throwing stones at each other."

Australia have lost 16 of their past 18 one-day internationals and are desperate to get off on the right foot in Perth, with two more one-dayers and a Twenty20 against the Proteas to follow.

Du Plessis said he expected less verbal banter on Sunday than in the past.

"An Australia-South Africa series is always going to be competitive but I do suspect this series will be a little bit more toned down, especially from the Australian side," he said on Saturday.

"Not necessarily from a body language point of view, but maybe from a verbal point of view."

Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner and their poor one-day form, Du Plessis said his team won't be taking the home side lightly.

"Whenever you get a chance to play against Australia it feels like you're playing against a very good cricket team," he said.

"When you look at what they've got in their squad at the moment on paper there are some fantastic names there with the ball and with the bat."

Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who has been cleared to play after a scare on Friday when he was struck on the finger by a Mitchell Starc delivery, said he was confident their miserable run of form would end.

"If we can follow our process and do our basics well enough that (winning) will start taking care of itself," he said.

"If you start looking at the end result purely that's when you can make some errors in judgement and fall down that way."

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series.

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series. The two sides meet in Perth on Sunday for the first time since the Test series in South Africa this year boiled over with Australian players attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper. The cheating saw Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned, while David Lehmann quit as coach. Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has since left and chairman David Peever fell on his sword on Thursday. Langer, Lehmann's replacement, has pledged to change the win-at-all-costs culture and said he hoped the first game of the summer at home would be a step in winning back fans. "It's sad, isn't it. Everyone seems to be at each other. There's lots of criticism," he said of the atmosphere surrounding Australian cricket. "What we can do is we can prepare well, we can play good cricket, and be entertaining and put on a good show so Australians can start smiling a bit. "One thing sport can do and the Australian cricket can do is put smiles on faces rather than everyone throwing stones at each other." Australia have lost 16 of their past 18 one-day internationals and are desperate to get off on the right foot in Perth, with two more one-dayers and a Twenty20 against the Proteas to follow. Du Plessis said he expected less verbal banter on Sunday than in the past. "An Australia-South Africa series is always going to be competitive but I do suspect this series will be a little bit more toned down, especially from the Australian side," he said on Saturday. "Not necessarily from a body language point of view, but maybe from a verbal point of view." Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner and their poor one-day form, Du Plessis said his team won't be taking the home side lightly. "Whenever you get a chance to play against Australia it feels like you're playing against a very good cricket team," he said. "When you look at what they've got in their squad at the moment on paper there are some fantastic names there with the ball and with the bat." Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who has been cleared to play after a scare on Friday when he was struck on the finger by a Mitchell Starc delivery, said he was confident their miserable run of form would end. "If we can follow our process and do our basics well enough that (winning) will start taking care of itself," he said. "If you start looking at the end result purely that's when you can make some errors in judgement and fall down that way."

Justin Langer vows to put smile back into Australian cricket

South Africa opener Aiden Markram on Friday scored his second century of the tournament on the first day of the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

The 23-year-old, who is enjoying a remarkable debut season, scored his fourth ton in ten Tests.&nbsp

Impressed by the youngster's technique and placement, Indian skipper Virat Kohli took to Twitter and appreciated Aiden's 152 runs innings of that came off 216 balls.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Aiden Markram ??
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/979717154583986176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred off 152 balls.

Previously also, Virat Kohli had praised the South African when he notched up 84 runs at Newlands in Cape Town in the third Test, which witnessed a ball-tampering scandal that shook the world of cricket.&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Aiden Markram is a delight to watch!
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/977530884696965120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kohli had been all praise for Aiden even during the India-South Africa Test series when the latter batted majestically for his 94 before being caught behind.

But, before Aiden could leave the field, Kohli approached the departing batsman and praised him for his knock.

"He came across and said 'well played' and 'unlucky to get out'," Markram had said while addressing the media.

"It was a great touch from him. He is a massive competitor as everyone sees on the TV, but it's great to see that he's got good values that people might not always see", he added.

"It was nice, a great gesture and it did mean a lot."

Meanwhile, at the end of day 1, South Africa were 313/6 at stumps.&nbsp

There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred

South Africa opener Aiden Markram on Friday scored his second century of the tournament on the first day of the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The 23-year-old, who is enjoying a remarkable debut season, scored his fourth ton in ten Tests. Impressed by the youngster's technique and placement, Indian skipper Virat Kohli took to Twitter and appreciated Aiden's 152 runs innings of that came off 216 balls. Aiden Markram ?? — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 30, 2018 × There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred off 152 balls. Previously also, Virat Kohli had praised the South African when he notched up 84 runs at Newlands in Cape Town in the third Test, which witnessed a ball-tampering scandal that shook the world of cricket. Aiden Markram is a delight to watch! — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 24, 2018 × Kohli had been all praise for Aiden even during the India-South Africa Test series when the latter batted majestically for his 94 before being caught behind. But, before Aiden could leave the field, Kohli approached the departing batsman and praised him for his knock. "He came across and said 'well played' and 'unlucky to get out'," Markram had said while addressing the media. "It was a great touch from him. He is a massive competitor as everyone sees on the TV, but it's great to see that he's got good values that people might not always see", he added. "It was nice, a great gesture and it did mean a lot." Meanwhile, at the end of day 1, South Africa were 313/6 at stumps.

Australia vs South Africa: Virat Kohli hails Markram's innings, tweets a special message

Australia&#39;s Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket.

Bancroft was caught on television cameras appearing to rub a yellow object on the ball, and later said: &quot;I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I want to be here (in the press conference) because I want to be accountable for my actions.&quot;

Smith added: &quot;The leadership group knew about it.&quot;

Television footage appeared to show Bancroft, 25, take on object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on the third day of the Test at Newlands.

He was spoken to by umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth during the 43rd over of South Africa&#39;s second innings after appearing to have the object in his hand after fielding the ball at cover.

While the umpires were conferring, Bancroft then appeared to place a small yellow object in his underpants.

When the umpires went across to talk to him he reached into a pocket and showed them what seemed to be a different object &ndash;- what looked like a soft pouch for sunglasses.

The umpires took no action and did not change the ball.

There were boos from a capacity crowd at Newlands when the incident was shown on the big screen at the ground.

Both Bancroft and Smith, who took over the Australian captaincy in 2015, appeared before the media after the match and admitted that they had attempted to change the condition of the ball.

&quot;We had a discussion during the break. On myself I saw an opportunity to use some yellow tape and the granules from the rough patches of the wicket to change the condition of the ball,&quot; said opening batsman Bancroft who is playing in his eighth Test.

&quot;It didn&#39;t work, the umpires didn&#39;t change the ball. We have this yellow tape in our kit. The actual sticky stuff itself is very sticky so I felt it could be used to collect some stuff from the side of the pitch.&quot;

Smith will now face calls for his resignation after admitting that Bancroft did not act alone.

&quot;The leadership group knew about it. We spoke about it at lunch. I&#39;m not proud of what happened. It&#39;s not in the spirit of the game,&quot; said the skipper.

Australia's Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket

Australia's Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket. Bancroft was caught on television cameras appearing to rub a yellow object on the ball, and later said: "I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I want to be here (in the press conference) because I want to be accountable for my actions." Smith added: "The leadership group knew about it." Television footage appeared to show Bancroft, 25, take on object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on the third day of the Test at Newlands. He was spoken to by umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth during the 43rd over of South Africa's second innings after appearing to have the object in his hand after fielding the ball at cover. While the umpires were conferring, Bancroft then appeared to place a small yellow object in his underpants. When the umpires went across to talk to him he reached into a pocket and showed them what seemed to be a different object –- what looked like a soft pouch for sunglasses. The umpires took no action and did not change the ball. There were boos from a capacity crowd at Newlands when the incident was shown on the big screen at the ground. Both Bancroft and Smith, who took over the Australian captaincy in 2015, appeared before the media after the match and admitted that they had attempted to change the condition of the ball. "We had a discussion during the break. On myself I saw an opportunity to use some yellow tape and the granules from the rough patches of the wicket to change the condition of the ball," said opening batsman Bancroft who is playing in his eighth Test. "It didn't work, the umpires didn't change the ball. We have this yellow tape in our kit. The actual sticky stuff itself is very sticky so I felt it could be used to collect some stuff from the side of the pitch." Smith will now face calls for his resignation after admitting that Bancroft did not act alone. "The leadership group knew about it. We spoke about it at lunch. I'm not proud of what happened. It's not in the spirit of the game," said the skipper.

Bancroft, Smith admit ball-tampering against South Africa

Australia captain Steven Smith said he was embarrassed by his team&#39;s performance against South Africa and accused his players of lacking pride in their wickets after another batting collapse paved the way to a crushing 2-0 series defeat.

Having resumed on 121 for two on day four in Hobart, Australia lost eight wickets for 40 runs before lunch to crumble to an innings and 80-run loss, the team&#39;s fifth successive defeat in tests.

Australia head to Adelaide for the series finale under lights next week with confidence at rock-bottom and pundits demanding wholesale changes to the team&#39;s roster and staff.

While giving credit to South Africa&#39;s outstanding pace attack, Smith offered no defence for the struggles of his players and instead slammed them for failing to live up to the demands of international cricket.

&quot;It&#39;s not working. Obviously on the back of five losses there&rsquo;s going to be a lot talked about in regards to selection and things like that,&quot; he said at a candid post-match media conference.

&quot;We&#39;re not digging in enough, we&#39;re not having the pride in our wicket ... Something&rsquo;s got to change and we&rsquo;ve got to play a lot better than we have been if we&rsquo;re going to beat any opposition around the world at the moment.

&quot;I need players that are willing to get in the contest and get in the battle and have some pride in playing for Australia and pride in the baggy green (cap).

&quot;I&rsquo;m quite sick of saying it. We&rsquo;ve lost five times in a row and for an Australian cricket team that&rsquo;s humiliating and I&rsquo;m embarrassed to be sitting here in this position, to be honest with you.&quot;

After being trounced by 177 runs in Perth, Australia brought a re-tooled lineup to Hobart, with Joe Burns replacing injured opener Shaun Marsh and specialist number six batsman Callum Ferguson debuting in place of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh.

Burns scored one and a duck, while Ferguson scored one in the second innings and ran himself out for three in the first.

Seamer Joe Mennie, who replaced injured paceman Peter Siddle, took 1-85 and rarely threatened.

Smith said it was inevitable that selections would be under the microscope but he offered a bleak prognosis of the available reserves.

&quot;We need guys in state cricket to really step and jump out of the pack. I don&rsquo;t think there&rsquo;s anyone really doing that at the moment, that&rsquo;s really averaging 55-60, things like that,&quot; he said.

&quot;So there&rsquo;s obviously going to be questions asked in all different ways.&quot;

Smith said his bowlers also needed to lift, berating them for lacking discipline and giving the South Africa batsmen &quot;freebies&quot; with loose deliveries in each over.

But they would at least be rested before Adelaide, in contrast to the batsmen, who faced a week of toil for their Sheffield Shield sides.

&quot;(Have them) try and spend some time out in the middle and score some runs,&quot; he said.

&quot;It&rsquo;s not happening at the moment so we&rsquo;ve got to find a way to get better and concentrate on some of the things that I&rsquo;ve talked about.&quot;

(Reuters)

'We?ve lost five times in a row and for an Australian cricket team that?s humiliating and I?m embarrassed to be sitting here,' he said

Australia captain Steven Smith said he was embarrassed by his team's performance against South Africa and accused his players of lacking pride in their wickets after another batting collapse paved the way to a crushing 2-0 series defeat. Having resumed on 121 for two on day four in Hobart, Australia lost eight wickets for 40 runs before lunch to crumble to an innings and 80-run loss, the team's fifth successive defeat in tests. Australia head to Adelaide for the series finale under lights next week with confidence at rock-bottom and pundits demanding wholesale changes to the team's roster and staff. While giving credit to South Africa's outstanding pace attack, Smith offered no defence for the struggles of his players and instead slammed them for failing to live up to the demands of international cricket. "It's not working. Obviously on the back of five losses there’s going to be a lot talked about in regards to selection and things like that," he said at a candid post-match media conference. "We're not digging in enough, we're not having the pride in our wicket ... Something’s got to change and we’ve got to play a lot better than we have been if we’re going to beat any opposition around the world at the moment. "I need players that are willing to get in the contest and get in the battle and have some pride in playing for Australia and pride in the baggy green (cap). "I’m quite sick of saying it. We’ve lost five times in a row and for an Australian cricket team that’s humiliating and I’m embarrassed to be sitting here in this position, to be honest with you." After being trounced by 177 runs in Perth, Australia brought a re-tooled lineup to Hobart, with Joe Burns replacing injured opener Shaun Marsh and specialist number six batsman Callum Ferguson debuting in place of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. Burns scored one and a duck, while Ferguson scored one in the second innings and ran himself out for three in the first. Seamer Joe Mennie, who replaced injured paceman Peter Siddle, took 1-85 and rarely threatened. Smith said it was inevitable that selections would be under the microscope but he offered a bleak prognosis of the available reserves. "We need guys in state cricket to really step and jump out of the pack. I don’t think there’s anyone really doing that at the moment, that’s really averaging 55-60, things like that," he said. "So there’s obviously going to be questions asked in all different ways." Smith said his bowlers also needed to lift, berating them for lacking discipline and giving the South Africa batsmen "freebies" with loose deliveries in each over. But they would at least be rested before Adelaide, in contrast to the batsmen, who faced a week of toil for their Sheffield Shield sides. "(Have them) try and spend some time out in the middle and score some runs," he said. "It’s not happening at the moment so we’ve got to find a way to get better and concentrate on some of the things that I’ve talked about." (Reuters)

Cricket: 'Humiliated' Australia captain Smith says team lacking pride

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