Retired South African all rounder Jacques Kallis has said that the Proteas' pace attack is superior to the one that powered Australia to Ashes success.
Australia has described its bowling attack as the best in the world, while Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle have spoken of their desire to rattle skipper Graeme Smith.
Kallis, who retired at the end of last year's short home series against India, addressed the question of the respective bowling attacks in a column that appeared on Cricket Australia's website, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.
He said he has heard Australian skipper Michael Clarke saying that he has the best attack in the world, but Kallis thinks South African pacers look better statistically.
Replacing Kallis is South Africa's biggest challenge for the Proteas.
Wayne Parnell and Ryan McLaren are competing for the all-rounder's spot.
Kallis said he had as much faith in South Africa as he had in his decision to retire.