Arthur back to drawing board

South Africa coach Mickey Arthur has welcomed the break the Proteas have between Test matches © Getty Images

South Africa coach Mickey Arthur welcomed a period of reflection following his side’s comprehensive first Test defeat to Australia.

The game finished inside three days, with the only plus for the Proteas being some extra time to recharge their batteries after a busy schedule of five one-day internationals before the start of the five-day game.

Arthur immediately sent his players home for a few days of rest.

“We’ve been on a huge emotional rollercoaster this past week,” he said.

“Coming so close in Durban to winning the game and the series, winning an unbelievable game on Sunday and a few days later starting a Test series.

“I think we need to sit down and just think about our Test disciplines again. I think we need to be tighter, I think we need to be a lot more patient in both disciplines, both batting and bowling.

“They’re going home to spend some time away from each other, and away from the game. They’ve hit enough balls, bowled enough balls, and caught enough catches.

“It’s now just getting away and tuning in mentally. Sometimes we underestimate the value of just getting away where the guys can clear their minds and think about their own games.”

The second Test starts in Durban on Friday.