The Proteas wrapped up their preparations for the 1st Test on Monday by playing to a draw against the Cricket Australia XI at the Allan Border Oval.

The Baggy Greens beat the West Indies convincingly in the two-Test series, but they are well aware that South Africa will be a step up.

South Africa's pace attack will be a valuable weapon in their arsenal, particularly in Brisbane, where the pitch is seam friendly and a fast bowlers' paradise.

The Proteas bowling coach, Charl Langeveldt, said the key to success lies in the first 20 balls.

"The key to most of their top six is the first 20 balls," said the former Proteas seamer Langeveldt.

"We have to make them play and Steve Smith has changed and he is not on the move anymore. He's got a good base now and doesn't move around the crease.

"It's going to be a big challenge for our boys and they'll be up for it, but the key is the first 20 balls. We need to make them play."

Langeveldt added that he was happy with the workload of the bowlers heading into the first Test between the two countries since March 2018.

"It was brilliant for our boys and our workloads," Langeveldt added.

"The guys spent some time on their feet, which is very important, and with the bowlers, the guys did very well.

"The conditions in Brisbane are different as compared to anywhere else in Australia. We bowled fuller and if you bowl short, it may look good, but it won't give you any rewards."

Play between Australia and South Africa in Brisbane begins at 2:20 on Saturday morning.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek