International Cricket Council President David Morgan and Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat today took possession of the ICC Test Championship Mace, signaling the start of the countdown to the top-of-the-table showdown between Australia and South Africa, beginning later this month.

The top prize in the game's ultimate format is up for grabs in the three-match series with the winner taking first place on the ladder, securing USD 175,000 in prize money and giving itself the right to be called the best side in the world.