South Africa's inspired performance in the second Test against Australia in Adelaide yesterday has given them the mental edge going into the series decider in Perth on Friday.
The Proteas started the final day in Adelaide with just six wickets standing, and forced a draw with two wickets in the bank.
Australia threw everything into the fray for the 148 overs of South Africa's second innings, but they were stymied by the resolute batting of Faf du Plessis - whose 110 not out made him the fourth South African to score a century on debut.
The sight of Peter Siddle sinking to his haunches several times during his yeoman bowling performance summed up Australia's day. Siddle's readiness for another match so soon is in question, and the Australians have reacted by loading their squad for Perth with fast bowlers.
Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, John Hastings and Mitchell Johnson are in the squad of 14, while Shane Watson - who missed the first two Tests with a calf injury - is also expected to be fit.
The Australians are also worried about the form of veteran Ricky Ponting, who has been dismissed for nought, four and 16 in his three innings in the series.
Graeme Smith said he knew a tired team when he saw one.
"Australia spent a lot in the last day-and-a-half, and we'll need to see how they reassess," Smith said.
"With four [wickets] down last night, the writing was probably on the wall. All I wanted was to see the guys show character; they represented us tremendously. That was most fulfilling."
With Vernon Philander, ruled out of the second Test with a back spasm, due to return in Perth, South Africa's major injury concern is Jacques Kallis, who played two important innings in Adelaide despite a strained hamstring.
Smith confirmed that if Kallis plays in the third Test it will be as a batsman only.
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