Smith applauds Proteas effort

Dale Steyn helped put South Africa within sight of a draw

Graeme Smith hailed his side’s spirit throughout the series despite defeat in the third and final Test against Australia.

The Proteas captain broke a hand earlier in the match and was not expected to bat, but came in at number 11 after a 50-run partnership between Dale Steyn and Makhaya Ntini put them in touching distance of saving the game.

Smith lauded the efforts of his bowlers, saying: “It epitomises the spirit in the team.”

He continued: “I came here with no kit this morning. I wasn’t going to go out, I was hoping it wouldn’t be needed. But after tea with about 25 overs to go I started to think about it.

“I was really pleased the guys managed to hold out, it made it a bit easier.

“Both tails have played a bit part in the series. They’ve made the captains’ lives a nightmare.”

South Africa took the series 2-1, and Smith thought it was a good advert for the game.

“The best thing about this series was the way it was played,” he said.

“It was played in a great spirit and the fans treated us with a lot of decency. I’m really chuffed that we’re on the winning side for a change.”

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting applauded his side’s efforts in the series, despite the result.

“I’m very proud of the way we played right through the series,” he said. “The results weren’t what we would have liked.

“We were in in good positions but weren’t good enough to push those positions home.

“To fight back and win this Test was a great effort, especially with some young guys coming in.

“When I saw that storm coming in I must admit the blood pressure was up a little bit. Luckily for us the weather held.”

The win means Australia hold on to top spot in the ICC rankings.