Dennis Lillee yesterday handed over his world record to Shane Warne then claimed that another major handover had taken place in Australian cricket.
Lillee believes Brett Lee has replaced Glenn McGrath as Australia's spearhead after the blond quick yesterday completed his first five-wicket haul against South Africa and sixth of his career.
The Proteas were bowled out for 296, a first-innings lead of 38, which Australia erased by stumps for the loss of Matthew Hayden.
While Lillee praised Warne for breaking his record of 85 wickets in a calendar year, he was just as excited about Lee's performance.
"Brett's steadily improved over many years," Lillee said.
"He has learnt to bowl now a more consistent line and length. He uses the yorker and bouncer sparingly and it probably has more effect.
"He is pretty much a complete fast bowler."
Asked whether Lee was now Australia's pace spearhead, Lillee said: "Absolutely. I would dare say McGrath would certainly be happy to take the pressure off himself for a start. It doesn't mean McGrath is any lesser (of a) bowler, (but) certainly Brett seems to have taken the mantle of leading the attack."
The Proteas appeared to be in trouble chasing Australia's first-innings total of 258 when they slipped to 6-187 near tea.
But a 77-run stand between veterans Mark Boucher (62) and Shaun Pollock (34) and some handy runs from the tail gave the tourists a lead.
- JON PIERIK