I did what any captain should do: De Villiers

Proteas skipper AB de Villiers is satisfied with the outcome surrounding the pink-ball Test in Adelaide this summer, saying he only 'did what any captain should do' by asking questions about the historic format.

And he says he's excited to be a part of a concept that looks set to dominate world cricket in the future.

It was confirmed this week that the final Test of the three-match series between Australia and South Africa later this year will be played under lights at the Adelaide Oval, despite reluctance from players from both teams about playing with the pink ball.

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Having held discussions with Australian players following the first pink-ball Test last summer, which Australia won against New Zealand inside three days, de Villiers expressed his concerns in April about playing the match as a day-night contest.

Unease about the visibility and durability of the ball were also raised publically by several Australian players, while the Proteas were concerned their lack of experience with the pink ball would be a distinct disadvantage.

But de Villiers says his initial reluctance was only borne out of a desire to get the best possible outcome for his team.

"I did what any captain should have done," de Villiers said in St Kitts ahead of their one-day international tri-series match against Australia on Sunday morning (AEST).

"I asked good questions, fought a little bit in a way to make sure we had the best opportunity to win a game of cricket and we had a fair chance.

"I'm happy with whatever happened in the press, I've got no hard feelings.

"I had to ask my questions, so did CSA (Cricket South Africa) and we all seem to be on the same page now. That's the most important thing."

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And the announcement that the Proteas will have two warm-up games with a pink ball - including one in Adelaide - before the historic Test has also pleased de Villiers.

"That was another concern and that's been cleared up completely," he said.

"That's what it's all about - to make sure we walk onto the pitch knowing that we've got the best possible opportunity to win a Test match for our country.

"Whether you're playing with a pink ball, white ball or red ball, we just want to have a fair chance and those two games really give us the perfect opportunity to prepare.

"And secondly, playing at Adelaide, that's the way we wanted it from the beginning. It seemed like we were losing control at one stage, but now it's definitely happening there so happy days. Ready to move forward."

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Now that the Test has been confirmed, De Villiers said his side is excited to play a role in the early days of a concept that is gaining momentum around the world, even if its future in unclear.

"I don't know where it's going to go, I must be very honest with you," he said.

"I was pretty confused when it first happened, when the first game was played I didn't know where it was going. And I still don't know where it's going to go in the future.

"You don't want to be part of something that just fades away. And vice versa - you don't want to stand up against something that's going to dominate cricket in the future.

"We're just happy to be a part of it now and we'll assess as it moves forward and hopefully it does happen in all countries and hopefully it'll be a big hit."