Smith, Wade script sensational chase

But all-rounder James Faulkner, who finished unbeaten on 34 off 19 balls, dominated a 48-run stand with Smith to tie the scores. Smith had the chance to hit the winning run but was bowled by left-arm spinner Robin Peterson trying to smash the ball out of the ground, leaving Pat Cummins to seal the victory off the next ball.

Brief Scores: Australia: 7 for 268 (Smith 104, Wade 52) beat South Africa: 8 for 267 (de Villiers 91) by 3 wickets.

McGrath WANTS SMITH TO LEAD

As serious doubts remain over Michael Clarke’s participation in the first Test against India, Steven Smith is being looked by many as a front-runner to lead Australia in the regular skipper’s absence. former Australian great Glenn McGrath has said Smith was the man for the job.

“They’ve probably earmarked someone like Steve Smith to be next Australian captain. Maybe they wanted it a little bit further down the track but I think Smithy will do a great job. He’s captained NSW so if the opportunity came along, he would be the guy to go to,” he said.

But its not just former players backing Smith for the top job, Australian wicketkeeper Matthew Wade has also backed him to lead the Test team in Clarke’s absence. “The way he’s gone about his business since he’s been captain and the 18 months that the Australian cricket team has, I’m sure Michael’s going to be around for a few more years, but that probably works in Smithy’s favour even better — he can get a few more Tests under his belt and take over.”