Zimbabwe suffered a demoralizing loss against South Africa as they failed to last even two full days in what was already a four-day Test. Losing 16 wickets on Wednesday (December 27) to lose the one-off Test inside two days of play awarded South Africa a thumping win, but didn’t go too far in helping the Proteas prepare for the challenging India series, during which they play three Tests before moving onto six ODIs and three T20Is.

However, stand-in captain AB de Villiers felt the preparation they got out of the Port Elizabeth Test was enough. He said, “Our preparation was to make sure we get through this Test match, [with a] bit of workload and get guys into form. I’m happy with [the] workload. All our batsmen had time in the middle and all the bowlers had a chance to shine.”

He further added, “It was very enjoyable in the end. It all happened at the same time. I love taking responsibility for the team and it went very well.”

Cricket South Africa’s experimental four-day, day-night one-off Test was met with a lot of early critics when the idea was mooted. The game ended on Day 2, but de Villiers remained neutral in his views about the shortened version of Tests, he said, “The batters were a little bit more positive, and there was the talk of declaring earlier than normal. It encourages more positive cricket and I enjoy that, although I’m not sure what the answer is because I still enjoy five day as well. But there is definitely an excitement to day-night cricket for four days. We all enjoyed it and I think the spectators will enjoy it as well.”

De Villiers, who was making a Test comeback after a 23-month long period, struck form immediately as he scored a brisk 65-ball 53 before getting out caught and bowled to Chris Mpofu. Talking about his captaincy, he said, “Faf will take over and then there is a bit of a selection headache. All the guys seem to be in good form. I am expecting to bat No.4 if I do play. If not, then I will carry drinks.”