So, after the main course of months of Test jousting, we can now look forward to a quick and colourful dessert.
A few months, six Test matches, high drama, fluctuating emotions, and the honours are even between the Proteas and Australia.
Or are they?
The stats tell us that, over the course of six Tests spanning two series, South Africa and the Aussies claimed three victories apiece. Somewhat surprisingly, both teams lost their home series.
So, honours even? Well, yes and no — these results should be viewed against the backdrop of recent performances in the game.
For a decade or more, Australia had been the unassailable leaders of the game, virtually unbeatable, and approaching each game with a confident swagger that refused to countenance the prospect of defeat. Large and daunting, they trampled mercilessly over the Test cricket landscape that they had claimed ownership of.
But this aura of invincibility has begun to recede in very recent times, initiated by the retirement of so many modern-day greats from their set-up (Warne, McGrath, Hayden et al).
At the same time, South Africa’s standing has improved immeasurably, the team having embarked on a successful run in the last year that included a series draw in India, an away series win over England, and a series win in Australia. The Proteas have taken on a settled feel, and youth and experience have been blended in a very effective manner.
Apart from two drawn series after South Africa’s readmission into Test cricket, Australia have largely made short work of the Proteas. The stats may show that the split over the recent back-to-back series was even, but much more can be read into this: it heralds the emergence of a more competitive South African team, and a time of rebuilding for Australia. This, in effect, illustrates the changing landscape of international cricket. No longer is there an undisputed best team, followed by competition amongst the also-rans. The playing fields are being levelled.
On the face of it, the 3-3 aggregate suggests an even contest. However, it also points to change in cricket’s world order. So, honours even? Well, South Africa’s cricketing shares have risen, while Australia don’t seem to be the bankable assets they once were.
Ahead of us lies the summer’s dessert portion: two T20 clashes and a five-match one-day series. Let’s hope that the quality of cricket served up mirrors that of the recent Tests.