Cape Town - The Proteas are a step closer to making history on Boxing Day when they take on Zimbabwe in the first ever four-day Test in Port Elizabeth.
Following Friday's confirmation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) that four-day Test matches had been given the go-ahead to be trialed, it is looking increasingly likely that South Africa will take part in the first ever shortened Test match.
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The decision to play Zimbabwe on Boxing Day was taken by Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the Indian tour, which was due to take place over that period, got pushed back because of scheduling reasons.
Now the Proteas will take on Zimbabwe in a one-off Test before turning their attention to India for three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is over January and February.
There had been some uncertainty, though, as to whether or not the four-day Zimbabwe Test would be considered an official Test match in the eyes of the ICC.
But, after Friday's announcement, it looks like it will be.
The ICC is currently in the process of drawing up a set of playing conditions for four-day Test matches, and those are expected to implemented for Boxing Day in PE.