Australia vs South Africa: Current combined Test XI
The Test summer in Australia is about to begin and the visiting team this time is one which brings in a lot of excitement to cricket viewers. Contests between South Africa and Australia are always eagerly awaited and neither have disappointed in providing intense cricket action.
This time, with South Africa's prodigal son, AB de Villiers, missing out due to an injury to his elbow, the contest gets even tighter. Not that Australia at home isn't formidable but just that the South Africans have managed to find ways to topple the Kangaroos in their backyard of late.
Also read: Australia vs South Africa 2016: 6 memorable Tests played between the two nations
With the exciting season about to begin, the author makes a humble attempt at compiling a combined Test XI from the current Test teams of South Africa and Australia.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and they do not necessarily represent the views of Sportskeeda
#1 David Warner
Two formidable openers have higher the limelight in recent years in Test cricket and one of them is the incredible David Warner. Warner has been the pioneer of the Sehwag-style of batting in Test cricket since his promotion to the Test team. He surprised quite a few by more than surviving with his attacking mindset in Test cricket.
Initially thought of as a T20 player, Warner has managed to blend his aggression with patience in the longer formats and become a force to reckon with at the top of the order. Warner’s ability to dominate any attack augers well for Australia. He also plays bounce pretty well and could easily take Rabada and Morkel out of the equation by attacking them.
#2 Dean Elgar
South Africa have an established opener too. Though he has not gained a stature similar to Warner, Elgar has stood out as a gutsy opener, much in the mould of the man he succeeded, Graeme Smith. Elgar's role in the series would be as crucial as ever. He would have to negate the early swing which Starc is bound to bring into play. The tone he sets would pave the way for the likes of Faf Du Plessis and Hashim Amla to capitalise on.
The stout opener would need to counter some early attack and make sure he converts the starts he gets to bigger scores. He has been a trusted force with the bat for South Africa of late. He may also be required to bowl some part-timers.
#3 Steven Smith
The no.3 spot has to go to the Aussie skipper, Steven Smith. He has been a terrific player for Australia in the longer formats and at home, is an even bigger force. Smith will be the most sought after wicket by the South Africans, for he can take away the game with his flamboyance.
He has shown a tendency to dominate the quicker bowlers. His recent exploits on Australian soil suggests that the trend could continue despite South Africa boasting of a terrific pace attack. The Australian wouldn't be in this eleven if not for De Villiers' injury.