Following a kick up the arse by an Australian invitational side, the Proteas have been told to turn up the intensity on tour Down Under.
The South Africans were caught cold in their warm-up match on Wednesday morning, losing by four wickets to a Prime Minister’s XI after posting just 173.
Opener batsman Aiden Markram top-scored with 47, while David Miller was the only other noteworthy performer with 43.
And ahead of the first of three ODIs against a new-look Australia team in Perth at 5.30am on Sunday morning, Markram warns they had better step their game up.
The 24-year-old says: “We were a touch rusty and maybe not at the right intensity level, so we’ll turn it up a notch going into the first ODI.
RETURNING: Dale Steyn. Photo: FRIKKIE KAPP/BACKPAGEPI X
He adds of the contest against the old enemy: “It’s extremely exciting.
“An ODI series against Australia will lift the intensity levels, it will lift the excitement levels, and generally, it brings out performances and guys putting their hands up.
“We’re looking forward to that. I don’t think there’s an easy game in international cricket, and especially not against Australia.
“We’re going to have to be on it come the first ODI and be at the right intensity level to deliver the goods.”
Markram is hoping that the experience of returning Dale Steyn can spark the fire in the pace attack too, with Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi completing the trident.
He says: “It’s always good to see Dale swinging the ball at a good speed.
“Positive sign for us. I’ve got no doubt he’ll lead our young attack and make it nice and exciting.”