In the first of three instalments running throughout the South Africa-Australia series, we delve into the Wisden Almanack archive to pick out a memorable Test match between the sides. Here we go back to the last time they met at Johannesburg, in the first Test of the 1996-97 series. Australia had overthrown West Indies as the best side in the world, but South Africa went into the series ready to usurp them ... 1st Test, 1996-97 - Johannesburg
Australia won by an innings and 196 runs

For the first time in over 20 years, the West Indies weren't involved in the unofficial world championship decider. Australia had shattered their supremacy, first in the Caribbean in 1994-95, and then at home over five Tests, just before this series began.

Australia were No. 1, but South Africa were the new pretenders. Since their return from international exile, they had not lost to the Australians. Back-to-back series in 1993-94 had been drawn 1-1, and South Africa had led in both.

The teams had improved since then. Australia had a new, enlightened captain in Mark Taylor, and a fast bowler in Glenn McGrath who was just establishing himself as world-class. South Africa had lost a Wessels and a Kirsten (Peter), but had added a Kallis and a Cullinan. And they had also found a Pollock, Shaun, whose burgeoning new-ball partnership with Allan Donald had just brought 30 wickets in three Tests against India.

Almanack report
Scorecard

Rob Smyth is on the staff of Wisden.com.

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