THE Australia touring party warmed up for the Test series against South Africa with a seven-wicket win in their four-day game against South Africa A at Potchefstroom.
The South Africans managed just a further 60 runs from their overnight position midway their second innings, dismissed for 264.
Mitchell Johnson struck again to finish with figures of five for 74 – and nine wickets in the match – and leave the Australians a target of 214 runs for victory.
Opener Phil Hughes fell for 19 to Wayne Parnell, but partner Shane Watson set about the chase with gusto, scoring a 73-ball 77.
Thami Tsolekile took the catch behind the stumps off the bowling of Ryan McLaren to leave Australia at 125 for two.
But by that time the tourists had broken the back of the target and although Ricky Ponting fell to Robin Peterson after a cameo innings worth 29 runs, Shaun Marsh ended unbeaten on 73 to wrap up the victory in little over 40 overs and more than a day to spare.
Vice-captain Watson hailed the performance of Johnson after the match.
“Mitch bowled beautifully throughout the game. To be able to see him swing the ball was great and it’s always a really good sign that he’s in a good place with his game,” Watson said.
With Australia also having won the one-day international series between the two sides, the visitors look in good shape ahead of the first of two Test matches, beginning in Cape Town on November 9.
“Tour matches are always a great way to go from one-day cricket into Test matches,” said Watson.  (Eurosport)