Why Australia’s Test series in South Africa is must-watch cricket

With Australia set to embark on their 20-Test odyssey in earnest on Friday in Durban, we takes a look at the major talking points for the three-Test series against South Africa.

1. Sandpapergate

This is the first time Australia has returned to South Africa for a Test series since sandpapergate, and they should be braced for a hostile reception.

Hardware stores around Durban will likely flourish as Proteas fans grab as much yellow sandpaper as they can get their hands on to taunt the Aussies, while fans watching at home shouldn’t be surprised if a few masks of Steve Smith crying at his press conference in 2018 come out of the woodwork.

There will also be plenty of chants and signs in the crowd that the Aussies will need to be prepared for, because the South Africans won’t miss their shots.

2. Marnus Labuschagne

Sandpapergate may be the biggest elephant in the room for this series, but the form of Marnus Labuschagne isn’t far behind it.

The Aussie No.3 has had three woeful years at Test level, and has not scored a century in 42 innings, but continues to be given unlimited chances.

However, should he fail in South Africa, it feels as though his time must surely be up, with some young talent raring for their chance.

He did make a century in the warm-up game, but it was on a flat deck with domestic bowlers, so the real test comes in Durban.

3. Bowling battle

Australia’s quartet of Mitch Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon are the undisputed No.1 bowling attack in the world.

Unless you ask the South Africans.

The home side is set to bring the heat with six fast bowlers who can clock speeds of 135km/h at worst in the squad, including giant Anrich Nortje.

They are also awaiting the fitness of star Kagiso Rabada, and if he is ruled fit, you do not want to miss his terrifying displays of fast bowling that have ripped even some of the best Australian batting orders apart.