South Africa defeat Australia by 31 runs in the 5th ODI; Take series 5-0

[soso_killer]

Not a surprise at all, another ICC tournament is less than an year away

Is it in September?
I think this group of players needs around 10 games to see our best combination when everyone is fit.
I'd consider dropping Rabada and see if Morris can operate as a front line bowler in a few bilatetals. If he can bowl economically with control SA would accommodate him as a bowler, his batting a bonus depending on how Phehlukwayo develops. Rabada needs a bit if rest, he's been playing non stop.

Amla
QdK +
Faf
AB
Rilley
Miller
Phehlukwayo
Morris
Abbot/Rabada
Morkel/Rabada
Tahir

(Pretorius, JP, Parnell, Shamsi and Phangiso as back up)
Steyn should retire IMO, and concentrate on Tests only.
The batting looks strong, bowling is a concern. It's about finding the right combination.

 

[soso_killer]

Will that work out in terms on the quota...?

Yes, CSA has made it clear that quotas are cumulative rather than enforced all at once without any basis.
That is if SA has 15 ODI fixtures a year, they have to find a way to make sure that the criteria is met for a certain percentage of matches (across a season/year). 60% i think? Which would be 8 of those 15 games.
Basically we won't compromise our strength at ICC events, only in meaningless bilaterals a LA Australia. So the quota will be flexible, and can accumulate over a two year period as well. For example It could happen that it's a world cup year, so there won't be to much experimentation. Hopefully this process enables our players to step up when the big guns fail or rested. It's been the most pleasing part about this series.
Yeah, this could be a false dawn as we were playing against a lolly-pop attack. But it was still good to see the likes of Miller, Rilley, JP stepping up. If Phehlukwayo can be a real deal (i.e. average 30 @90 with the bat, and 30 @5 an over with the ball), SA could have a side to compete at ICC events. ATM we're top heavy.

 

[SL_Fan]

Good thing that Rod Marsh will be finally stepping down next year. There have been a fair few puzzling selections last couple of years or so especially. Marsh and co probably played eeny, meeny, miny, moe or something when picking this squad.