De Villiers says Proteas not to 'stoop' to Oz's level by engaging in 'war-of-words'

South African ODI captain AB de Villiers has said that they will not stoop to Australia's level by engaging in a 'war-of-words' ahead of their three-Test series, three Twenty20 series next month.

Australia believe they have what it takes to down the No 1-ranked Test team in their own backyard following their recent 5-0 Ashes demolition of England, with batsman David Warner saying that South Africa will head into the series on the 'back foot'.

According to Sport24, captain Michael Clarke and fast bowler Peter Siddle both said Australia's bowling line-up is better than South Africa's, although De Villiers insisted that his teammates would not be side-tracked by any attempt at intimidation from the tourists.

Stating that Australia is an 'in-your-face' type of a team, the wicketkeeper also said that his team should not fall into Australia's trap and stoop down to their level by becoming involved in a war-of-words, adding that Australia needs to realise that South Africa will not take a backward step even if things get heated.

De Villiers also said that the game remains their number one priority, adding that although it would be a big challenge as Australia is playing with a lot of confidence, his team has an opportunity to prove their worthiness of being the No.1 Test team in the world.