Apart from the normal challenge of trying to win a showdown at Newlands between two of cricket's top teams, both skippers will be seeking to end a run of poor personal form with the bat.
And both will be facing bowlers who have been a nemesis during their careers.
Smith has had scores of 10, 4, 9 and 14 in the first two Tests, while Clarke has made 23, 17 not out, 19 and 1.
No bowler has claimed his wicket more often in Tests, although Chris Martin of New Zealand also got him out eight times in 11 matches.
Clarke has fallen twice to Dale Steyn, taking his number of dismissals against South Africa's fast bowling kingpin to nine in 13 Tests, equal with Englishmen James Anderson (23 Tests) and Stuart Broad (17 Tests).
Both captains have rejected concerns about their form.
Smith points out that he scored a double century against Pakistan five Tests ago and that he has had success as well as failures against Johnson.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
