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Ideal warm-up for Proteas

Johannesburg - Proteas assistant coach Russell Domingo was satisfied with the team's performance on the opening day of their three-day warm-up match against Australia A in Sydney on Friday.

The Australians finished the day on 325/7 in an innings held together by two century partnerships and a top score of 85 from opener Rob Quiney.

"I think we are happy with what has happened today," Domingo said.

"We would probably rather have a day like today rather than bowling a team out for 80 or 150."

Dale Steyn was the top wicket-taker with 3/43, and was well backed by Rory Kleinveldt who finished with 2/45 and Imran Tahir who took 2/114.

"We had some good time in the field. Everybody bowled three or four spells, so it was a good day for us," Domingo said.

The tour match is the Proteas' only preparation in the middle ahead of the Test series opener in Brisbane next week.

While the Sydney Cricket Ground offered different conditions to what was expected at the Gabba, Domingo said it had given the squad satisfactory preparation.

"Historically, Sydney has been a bit of a spinning wicket, and that was probably the one concern because the Gabba is known to be quicker and bouncier," he said.

"We practised on some really good wickets in the nets this week, which have offered us some good pace and bounce. We had good preparation here."

Kleinveldt had an excellent first outing in the Test whites, bowling with the skill and form that earned him his maiden Proteas call-up.

"He has been impressive in domestic cricket for a while and he has been superb in our preparation this week," Domingo said.

"There is no doubt that if he should play, or if he is called up to play, he will be able to perform really well at this level."

Alex Doolan, who was unbeaten on 76, will resume the Australian side's first innings with Tim Paine, on one not out, on Saturday morning.

South Africa's star all-rounder, Jacques Kallis, did not feature in the match as he was recovering from a chest infection, while Morne Morkel was rested.

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