Former captain Johan Botha reckons South Africa are “shaping up pretty well” ahead of this month’s limited-overs series against Australia.

Botha is a naturalised Australian – and led his country of birth to ODI series victory in his adopted nation in 2009.

‘South Africa have won enough in Australia not to fear playing here anymore‚ or standing back and almost being overawed by the occasion,’ Times Live quoted Botha as saying.

Australia are the reigning World Cup champions – and arguably among the favourites for next year’s showpiece in the United Kingdom.

‘Australia will always back themselves going into any tournament. That might just be a bit of a bluff in 2019‚ but you still have to respect the defending champions coming into the tournament,’ he added.

Botha suggested current Proteas captain Faf du Plessis will come under fire in Australia. Du Plessis was found guilty of ball-tampering in Australia two years ago.

‘Faf has been a good captain‚ although obviously it was a little bit forced on him once AB de Villiers didn’t want to do it anymore,’ he added.

‘The Australian public will hang onto anything to try make your tour a disaster‚ especially if it involves the captain of the opposing team.’