We are favourites - Smith South African cricket captain Graeme Smith believes the Proteas are favourites ahead of their three-test series against Australia starting at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Wednesday. The hosts will be aiming to secure their first test series win over Australia in South Africa since re-admission, but that did not deter Smith from confirming his team are expecting to come out on top. "If you're the No 1 team in the world, you have to be favourites," Smith said in Centurion on Tuesday. "It's something we've become accustomed to and very comfortable with over a period of time. We've been No 1 in the world and travelled to some tough places to get it firstly, and then to defend it." The opening batsman said there were no injury concerns ahead of the game, and confirmed AB de Villiers was fully fit. "We've got a good idea of where we want to go but I think we'll just clarify that [team selection] this afternoon," he said. "Whether we're deciding on an extra batter or bowler, we have a lot of options available. "It's been good to see the guys who've come in and how hard they've trained." Spinner Robin Peterson would almost certainly be part of the team, Smith said. "The spinner is definitely a consideration, we've been reluctant to play test matches without a spinner over the last couple of years," Smith said. "We feel that the role is crucial, I would be surprised if we went without one." While the series had been labelled a clash between the bowlers, Smith said the batsmen played an important role in the team's successes. "Our batting unit flies a little bit under the radar," Smith said. "The performances the guys have put in around the world have given us the stability and platform to go on and win test matches. "The partnerships we've been able to put together have been impressive. "Hash [Hashim Amla] and AB have done really well, but everyone has contributed when needed." The Australians, ranked third in the world test rankings, would use the series as a chance to prove their worth against the top-ranked Proteas, Australian captain Michael Clarke said on Tuesday. "It's a great test for this team playing the No 1 team in their own back yard," said Clarke. "South Africa has through my career been as tough as any opposition. Where we sit on the rankings is an indication of how we've played over the last few years." Clarke said the Proteas had earned their position through consistent good play throughout the years. "You don't become No 1 in the world overnight," he said. "They've been extremely successful over the years, they've got a great mix of youth and experience and they've earned their position on top." Clarke said the batsmen would have to be at their best against two quality bowling attacks. "The wickets are conducive to fast bowling but that's the challenge you look forward to," Clarke said. "This South African attack is as good as any I've played against." South Africa come off a 1-0 home series win over India in December, while the Aussies are fresh off a 5-0 demolishing of England, in the Ashes in Australia in January.