South Africa head into the series brimming with confidence after reclaiming the number one spot in the ICC Test rankings. Their latest achievement came after a memorable 2-1 series victory over Australia, having fought back from a Test down to clinch an important series win against one of the toughest opponents in world cricket.

It was a hard-fought battle, with all three Tests played along the coast. However, the conditions are expected to offer a different challenge on the Highveld, where seam movement and extra bounce could play a more significant role.

As reigning World Test Championship champions, the Proteas have another opportunity to strengthen their position in the race to qualify for a second successive final at Lord's in London. However, there is still plenty of work to be done, and they cannot afford to take their foot off the pedal.

Bangladesh, meanwhile, will be desperate to make a statement after suffering a 1-0 home series defeat against the West Indies. However, the visitors should not be underestimated. They have shown in the past that they are capable of producing some impressive results against top-ranked opposition, including a memorable series victory over Australia.

Proteas coach Shukri Conrad made it clear on Thursday that his side's immediate priority is the Bangladesh challenge, with any thoughts of the upcoming series against England firmly on the back burner for now.

Two days before the opening Test, record-breaking fast bowler Kagiso Rabada echoed his coach's sentiments, stressing that international cricket leaves little room for complacency.

“In international cricket, you can't take any series for granted. There are always high stakes in every game you play,” Rabada said.

“Going into this series against Bangladesh, they'll be high in confidence, especially considering the way they've been playing recently.

“It's exciting. You want to be up against the best opposition you can face, and I think they'll want to come here and prove a point. Hopefully, we see some exciting cricket, as we have in previous series. It shows how healthy the game is, and I'm really looking forward to this battle.

Kagiso Rabada - Morgan Piek

“Playing at the Wanderers after quite some time is exciting, and the weather has been really hot. You can feel that the South African summer is on its way. That should be exciting for us and, I'm sure, for the spectators as well.

“We can take positives from the way we've been playing, but at the same time, you can't take any opposition or series for granted. There has to be something on the line. Otherwise, you take away the fun, enjoyment and desperation that make the game what it is.

“So, I'd say Shukri is pretty accurate.”

The first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh at the Wanderers in Johannesburg gets underway on Sunday, with the first ball scheduled for 10:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport