"I think it's a little similar to the Duke (ball) - except when you get past 30 overs, the ball got extremely soft. I think that's the only negative about it," he said.
Some South African players including skipper AB de Villiers and Philander himself were hesitant to play a day-night Test in Australia, scheduled for November this year, and had to be coaxed by Cricket Australia with offers of additional practice games. Philander though, was quick to point out that he is 'excited' about the prospect of playing Test cricket under the lights but hoped for some improvement with the condition of the ball.
"All in all, I think we are all excited about the pink-ball games and as long as we can improve the ball, I think we will have a good future with the pink ball," he said.
Philander also expressed happiness with his own efforts on the first day as he is looking to impress the selectors to win his spot back in South Africa's Test side. After injuring his ankle last year in Bangalore during the Test series against India, the seamer made a return to competitive cricket in March and played five first-class games before getting picked for the A tour of Australia. Even though he picked up only one wicket on the first day, he conceded only 32 runs in his 17 overs.
"The ball came out well in patches for me," he said. "I bowled really in the morning and this afternoon and let it slip a little towards the back end, but all in all, I am happy with my performance."
With plenty of other Test hopefuls looking to make their mark in the game ahead of South Africa's home Test series against New Zealand, Philander is seeking improvement on the second day and expects the batters to step up.
"The boys bowled well in patches," he said. "There was a lack of preparation coming over here with us having two days of practice and having to turn around. Australia played out of their socks, but our focus will be on getting the other five wickets and then letting the batsmen do their thing."
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