The first match takes place at the MCG on Sunday evening with the second at Brisbane's famous Gabba on Tuesday.
Fast bowler Morne Morkel on Friday gave an insight into the tough schedule the two teams have had over the test series with the three matches following one on top of the other. The Australians have not surprisingly decided to rest Mitchell Johnson from the majority of limited overs matches while Peter Siddle will miss the T20 engagements.
“The vital fact thing for the bowlers is the recovery period,” said Morkel. “It has been quite a draining time, particularly with back-to-back test matches. I don't think we have to worry about our skills. Those have always been there, maybe just a bit of work on our slower balls and death bowling. The important thing will be getting our bodies 100 percent again.”
Morkel added that in this regard the arrival of four fresh players, including the experienced Herschelle Gibbs, would do a lot to revitalise the squad.
“Herschelle is a special man in the team and he also adds a lot of experience. Fresh faces bring new vibes to the team, so it is lovely to have these guys here.”
One of the other positives is that Albie Morkel will again be able to fill an all-rounder's role.
“It's been a long process,” said the elder Morkel about his recent shoulder problem. “I have had seven weeks of rehab and I have changed my throwing action in the field, just to get all my muscles working again. I made a comeback against Bangladesh which, according to the medical staff, was a bit early. This led to more time off but I must say that now I am feeling a lot stronger.
“I haven't bowled in a game yet. Unfortunately the last two domestic games were washed out but I have bowled a lot in the nets and I feel good.”
One thing Albie is looking forward to is the challenge of playing in front of a full house at the MCG.
“I was fortunate to play in the IPL where we had crowds up to 100 000. This sort of crowd always brings out the best in players. I haven't played at the MCG before. I did come here with the South African A side in 2004 but we didn't play here. I am definitely looking forward to it. It is an amazing place to play in front of a huge crowd.
“I enjoy this format of the game. I think it was my stepping stone to the one-day side. It suits my game being an attacking batsman who can hit the ball a long way. It is definitely a form of the game that I enjoy.”
Limited overs cricket will, of course, also give Morne further opportunities to develop his batting.
“It is definitely one of my aims to develop my batting,” he said. “You can't just rely on one discipline. I want to see myself as a bowling all-rounder in the years to come. I have been working hard with Mickey (Arthur) and with Duncan (Fletcher) when he was over here. I am definitely moving in the right direction and it is just a case of getting my mental side right.
“Hopefully the goal at the end of my career will be to average 25 with the bat and become a good No. 8 or No. 9.”
The Proteas are expected to announce their starting line-up for Sunday at tomorrow's final practice. All 15 players are fit and ready to go.
