Bring on battle for world supremacy: Kallis

South Africa are viewing the forthcoming three-Test series against Australia as a battle for world cricket supremacy, all-rounder Jacques Kallis said on Saturday.

"For us, this is our biggest clash," Kallis was quoted as saying in The Australian newspaper.

"We've certainly worked the whole season towards it," he said in Perth, where the South Africans are playing a four-day tour match against Western Australia.

"We see it as one and two playing each other for the world Test crown."

Australia and South Africa are ranked first and second in the Test world championship.

The first Test in Adelaide starts next Friday.

The two teams drew the three-Test series in both countries in 1993-94 before Australia won in South Africa in 1996-97 and at home in 1997-98.

South Africa also failed to seize two opportunities to beat eventual champions Australia in the 1999 World Cup.

"The tables have to turn," Kallis said. "A few things we feel haven't gone our way. We weren't all that experienced but now a lot of the guys have played Australia here and at home.

"We know what to expect and have a better idea of how to beat them. We're going to go out there and enjoy the series and let our natural game take over."

Kallis, 26, who has played in 54 Tests, has an impressive record of 102 wickets at 28.22 with his fast-medium swing bowling and averages 47.86 with the bat.

He said the team had learnt through experience that it was better to take a slightly more relaxed attitude into a series against Australia.

"I think we were a little bit nervous last time but obviously the older you get and the more tests you get, while test cricket never gets easier, you learn to handle it a little bit better," he said.

"We play as a team, a unit. We believe in ourselves.

"We've got a few good players who are averaging about 40 (with the bat). Suddenly we're up there with the best in the world."

Mail Cricket Editor