Johannesburg, Feb 11  : Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin has admitted that South Africa are the favourites for their three-Test series starting in Centurion on Wednesday.

South Africa has maintained their number one ranking since midway through 2012, which was no fluke according to the Test vice-captain.

According to Sport24, Haddin said that he believes South Africa is on the top of the Test rung as they have played consistent cricket over a long period of time and have won at home and away, adding that they deserve the tag of favourites.

Stating that it will be a big challenge for Australia to test themselves away from home against South Africa, Haddin said that although their opponents would miss the services of retired all-rounder Jacques Kallis, they can cope without him as they have a very high-class batting line-up.

Haddin however, said that Australia is ready for the first Test despite bad weather affecting their preparations in Potchefstroom last week, as they are enjoying outstanding facilities.

While their dominant 5-0 victory over England in Australia boosted the side's confidence, the real litmus test would be against South Africa, said Haddin. (ANI)