The ICC has given the pitch at the Gabba a "below average" rating after Australia beat South Africa in the first Test within two days.

Australia won the opening match of the series by six wickets on a surface Proteas captain Dean Elgar described as potentially "unsafe".

it was the second-shortest Test ever in the country, with 34 wickets falling in just 144.2 overs in Brisbane - where the tourists were skittled out for only 99 in their second innings after posting a mere 152 all out in their first.

Governing body the ICC on Tuesday delivered their assessment of the track, slapping the venue with one demerit point.

 ICC elite panel of match referees member Richie Richardson said: "Overall, the Gabba pitch for this Test match was too much in favour of the bowlers.

"There was extra bounce and occasional excessive seam movement. The odd delivery also kept low on the second day, making it very difficult for batters to build partnerships.

"I found the pitch to be 'below average' as per the ICC guidelines since it was not an even contest between bat and ball."

If the venue incurs demerit points, which are active over a rolling five-year period, it would be banned from hosting any international cricket for a period of 12 months.