Australia always tough to beat – Du Plessis

Standard Bank Proteas captain, Faf du Plessis, says it would be naïve to take Australia lightly in the opening One-Day International (ODI) at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday. The home team’s recent form – they have won 16 out of 18 matches played since January 2017 – suggests the Proteas could have the upper hand, but Du Plessis and his charges remain cautious of a proud Australian outfit. Statistical history suggests it will be an evenly contested series; Australia have won 18 and South Africa 17 of the 36 matches played since re-admission. The Proteas last won an ODI series ‘Down Under’ during the memorable tour of 2008/2009, with the Johan Botha-led squad taking a commanding 4-1 win. The batting line-up is missing the experience of Hashim Amla and JP Duminy due to injury, but Du Plessis says this is the best opportunity for the next tier of players to test themselves against the best in the world. Heinrich Klaasen has recovered from the shoulder niggle that kept him out of the match against the Prime Minister’s XI, which gives the selectors a fully fit squad of 15 to pick from.