Whether it be a new morning ritual or newfound sense of belief, something is clearly working wonders for reformed allrounder Mitch Marsh.
One year ago, Marsh was the undisputed whipping boy of Australian cricket.
The West Australian returned home early from a tour of India to undergo shoulder surgery, only to be met with immense scorn on social media and headlines declaring him the worst No.6 in Test history.
Marsh worked hard on his batting after the surgery, developing more patience at the crease.
It was reflected in the hard-fought knock of 96 that put Australia on track for a 1-0 series lead over South Africa.
Marsh also delivered a clutch wicket in Durban, dismissing Aiden Markram for 143 on day four.
"He's been fantastic. I'm very pleased for him because he's worked really hard," coach Darren Lehmann said.
"We saw a lot in his ability early on to give him a really good run at it.
"He (now) believes he belongs. That's the biggest thing in Test match cricket, to believe you belong at the level and I thought he played beautifully.
"He looks more relaxed at the crease as a batsman."
Marsh was appointed Western Australia's captain last year, approximately the same time he adopted a routine that has resulted in some niggle from Test teammates.
The 26-year-old rises early for a daily swim at the beach, a habit he continued in Durban during the first Test.
"I started about six months ago, just getting up early and getting stuck into life really," Marsh said during the series-opener.
"In Perth I chat to all the old fellas and talk cricket and a bit of smack, it's great.
"It was obviously an important innings (at Kingsmead) ... and I was really proud of the way I was able to bat with the tail."
Former Australia opener Simon Katich suggested Marsh could be Steve Smith's successor as skipper.
"The way he's playing at the moment, if he keeps going at this rate and improving the way he has with the bat and contributing with the ball then down the track potentially he's the man," Katich said.
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