Put the celebrations on hold. Australia are still world No. 1 after winning the Sydney Test. But the shield of invincibility surrounding Ricky Ponting's men has been shattered beyond repair. And it has opened up a close race for the top spot in Test cricket with South Africa and India in hot pursuit.
A candidate for profiles in courage — Graeme Smith led from the front as South Africa almost upset the world order. With his team staring at defeat the captain came out despite a broken finger. Australia though hung on to their No. 1 ranking by the fingernails as Smith was last man out, a response from the Aussies that they weren't done just yet.
"It's very pleasing for me to see some of the younger players come into the team and this game and start off with a win," said Australian captain Ricky Ponting, praising debutants Doug Bollinger and Andrew McDonald besides a new-look Australian outfit. "This is what you always hope for."
The Sydney result opens up a mouth-watering three-horse race for the top spot in Test cricket over the course of the year. South Africa can still do it if they beat Australia at home next month in a return series. Thumping Australia 2-1 at home is the defining moment in their cricketing history and Smith knows his team is on the cusp of ending an era.
"Balance of power is evening out in world cricket," says South African skipper Graeme Smith. "Australia dominated world cricket for a decade or so and obviously, enjoyed their time."
Not too far behind is a team which has given Australia far more nightmares than the Proteas. India are worthy challengers after beating Australia thrice this year.
"The gap has been narrowed," says Indian batsman Yuvraj Singh. "But we have to play consistently well throughout the years to come to become No. 1."
