By Justin Langer Australia Test batsman

After Sunday's one-day blockbuster in Johannesburg, it seems inconceivable that the forthcoming Test series could ever reach similar heights.

In the most incredible one-day international ever played the impossible was achieved not once, but twice

Having said that, the last few months has seen some tough cricket played between two very proud and talented teams, so it would be no surprise if more great cricket isn't on the horizon.

Even though I was not in the team on Sunday, I was lucky to be in the changing room when Australia went past the magical figure of 400 for the first time in the history of one-day international cricket.

To me the greatest significance of this achievement was on a deeper level than the surface brilliance and entertainment of such an effort.

For years leading up to this moment, John Buchanan had been encouraging the team to aim for such a score.

He would constantly plant the seed that such a milestone could be conquered if the team was looking to improve and aim for the stars.

Using statistics, theories and gut feeling he would intellectualize the reasons why it could be done and why this particular team should be the one to do it.

Such an attitude for constant improvement is often met with scepticism and resistance, because to meet such a challenge means hard work and a selfless acceptance of where the team is aiming.

The simple fact is for the team to reach the seemingly impossible, people would have to break the mould and play well out of their comfort zones.

And they did.

The entertainment was extraordinary as was the excitement within the team when the milestone had been achieved.

There was hugging and back slapping and a realisation that anything could be achieved if you persevere, have faith in the vision and then let go of all barriers or limitations to what can be achieved.

The picturesque Newlands ground stages the opening Test

The attitude of constant improvement and raising the bar has been a constant factor since John took over as coach of the team and while results haven't always gone to plan, I believe our relentless quest for excellence has been one of the catalysts behind our success.

What was also extraordinary on the day was that South Africa came out and went one run better in winning the game.

With the one-day series over, it is now time to look forward to the Tests.

During our summer the result was 2-0 to us and while this may look like a comprehensive result, the series was an uncompromising one.

Like the Ashes series last English summer the cricket was very intense but generally played in the right spirit.

South Africa are sure to a very tough opposition on their home turf and with Jacques Kallis and Makhya Ntini back in the side we will have to be at our best.

The loss of Glenn McGrath would leave a hole in any team and while we are sure to miss him we are focused on keeping our Test form, running strongly in our favour.

Cape Town boasts one of the most beautiful grounds in the world so playing here is a thrill.

Come Thursday the thrill will be heightened when the Test gets under way.

From Cape Town,
JL