No more quota required

Waiting in the wings, the likes of Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Monde Zondeki have cut their teeth in the franchise competitions, both ending as leading wicket takers in the last two completed SuperSport Series. Both are more than able replacements for Ntini when he finally decides to call it quits ... The find of the summer, JP Duminy, has also waited patiently, all the while churning out a pile of runs domestically. An enthralled Australian commentary box has compared the classy left-hander to none other than Brian Charles Lara, so meteorically has his stock risen. The man whose injury opened the door for Duminy, the indefatigable Ashwell Prince, has climbed the ranks to become Smith’s lieutenant, with several match-winning centuries — including one in Australia and two in England — illustrating his pivotal role in a vastly succesful middle- order. None of these players are looked at within the team, or around the world for that matter, as inferior players of colour dependent on a favourable selection process to make the grade. They are key to Smith’s plans, heroes around the country and good enough to hold their own in any conditions.

There were times when it seemed Australia were invincible, an opinion to which Australia themselves, through preparation, method and sheer outrageous conviction continually added credence. But they demonstrated above all that none of the above can legislate for the simple loss of great cricketers. Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne went more or less together, along with Justin Langer. Adam Gilchrist followed a year later. It was too much.

In the ABC Radio commentary box there is an sms screen alongside the television replay screen which displays listeners comments and questions. There are too many to mention but, from time to time, the commentator picks one and discusses it. One which slips through the net but grabs my attention while I'm doing another guest spot says: "The first popular Safrican team ever to tour Oz - they're winners and seem bloody good blokes, too much to cope with! - Nevil" Jacques Kallis is standing close to the presentation area after the match. He doesn't need to be there but has waited 12 years for this moment and wants to soak up as much of the atmosphere as possible.