South africa maintains the top spot in ODI ratings with the sries victory over the aussies. It was the penultimate match against Australia and the proteas made a 61-run win in Port Elizabeth. The victory helped them maintain their supremacy as the No. 1 one-day side, but Smith was more excited about the prospects and talent that came through in the four matches.
"I think there are some really exciting players coming through," he said. "Everyone's contributing with bat and ball - there's a really good energy in the squad. We just need to keep our feet on the ground and take one step at a time."
He singled out the batsmen for special praise, in particular Herschelle Gibbs, who scored a match-winning 110 and AB de Villiers (84). "Obviously we wanted to play well and win the series here," he said. "I think the batters did a superb job.
Smith admitted that he was surprised with Australia's decision to field first in the crucial match. "It is a bit unusual for Australia to bowl first in big games," said Smith. "But once we posted 317, we were always confident.
South Africa posted 317 for 6, which was followed by a spirited Australian chase before Dale Steyn derailed them with 4 for 44. "At 129 for nought, we were a little bit nervous, but the boys did really well and showed a lot of character. It was another very good day for us," said Smith.
The win allowed South Africa to take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series but Smith indicated that there would be no letting off in the final match at Johannesburg. "We'll look to finish the series on a high note at the Wanderers and if we do make it 4-1, then it will really make a top-standard series for us."
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