Brad Haddin enters the South Africa Test series in arguably the form of his life, but knowing South Africa will provide much sterner resistance than England.

Haddin was one of Australia’s standout performers in the 5-0 Ashes win over England, scoring 493 runs and often steadying his side’s cause in eye-catchingly aggressive fashion.

The 36-year-old, who missed the last Test series between the two sides in 2012 because his daughter was ill, now confronts the likes of Vernon Philander and Dale Steyn.

“I felt as comfortable as I have for a long time. I was just enjoying the whole series,” Haddin said of his feats in the Ashes.

“But this is another challenge. These guys are No.1 in the world and they’ve got a pretty handy attack so it’s going to be a different kettle of fish.

“It’s a totally different beast we’re trying to tame here.”

Haddin described the upcoming series, which starts on Wednesday in Centurion, as the sort of moment he plays Test cricket for.

And the wicketkeeper has been hard at work in the nets to make sure he can rise to the occasion once again.

“I’m always trying to look at ways to improve and simplify my game,” he said.

“I always said if I stop trying to challenge myself to be a better player I’ll call it a day.”

Haddin said South Africa would start deserved favourites.