Playing their first match in South Africa since the ball-tampering scandal that cast Australian cricket into turmoil in 2018, Smith (45) and Warner (four) had contrasting fortunes as the tourists posted 6-196 after being sent into bat in Johannesburg.

Much of the focus had been on how Smith and Warner would be received at a ground notorious for its hostility towards opposition players.

But the Wanderers had a party atmosphere from the moment Warner holed out at fine leg off the second ball from veteran Dale Steyn.

South Africa's champion quick roared and unleashed a trademark chainsaw celebration as Warner departed, flanked by the team security manager on the long walk back up the tunnel.

Smith's arrival was met with scattered jeers but the loudest boos were reserved for when Steyn sent down a grubber and Smith charged down the wicket to smack it away.

Smith had already been given a second chance when Steyn, fielding at third man, lost track of a straightforward chance on the boundary.

Australia looked set for a monster total at the famously high-scoring ground when Smith and Finch (42) piloted the tourists to 1-70 off the powerplay.

But left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi struck to dismiss Finch then combined with Quinton de Kock to have Smith stumped well out of his crease.

Matthew Wade and Mitch Marsh both earned recalls, batting at No.4 and No.5 respectively, but neither lit the world on fire.

Wade made 18 and Marsh 19 before handy cameos from Alex Carey (27) and Ashton Agar (20no).

South Africa could have had things easier were it not for some lacklustre fielding, with Steyn, Shamsi and debutant Pite van Biljon all fluffing simple opportunities.

Australian Associated Press