South Africa boosted by Smith and Kallis’ return to fitness – Cricket News Update
South Africa received a double boost ahead of the final Test at Lord’s after their medical staff cleared skipper, Graeme Smith, and all-rounder, Jacques Kallis, to take part in the final warm-up game against Derbyshire, which starts on Friday.
Both players suffered injuries during the drawn Test at Headingley and were a serious doubt for the all-important, winner takes all clash starting in less than a week’s time.
Smith injured his left knee after he slid awkwardly late on the third evening of the second Test and despite getting on-field treatment, he was forced to walk off the park, with AB de Villiers taking on the captaincy for the remaining four overs.
He however, managed to open the innings with a strapped knee and continued for the remainder of the Test. While a full assessment will be done once the tour ends, Mohammed Moosajee, the South African team manager revealed that the skipper is available for selection.
“Graeme has fully recovered from the minor ligament sprain to his left knee and we also have positive feedback,” he said.
As for Kallis, he has responded well after receiving extensive physiotherapy and getting rest following a gruelling Headingley clash. The player felt some discomfort in his back on the third afternoon, and stayed back at the hotel for the entire fourth day, with Robin Petersen fielding in his absence.
The management confirmed that the veteran will not be able to bowl for the remaining duration of the Test however, will bat, if required. Kallis then came in at 5, as oppose to his usual no.4 position, in order to accommodate the time he missed on the field.
Kallis has a history of similar back spasms and also missed the final Test of South Africa’s previous tour (New Zealand) due to a stiff neck.
“….We also have positive feedback from Jacques, who has responded well to treatment following the acute back spasms that he suffered during the Test," Moosajee added.
Opener Alviro Petersen however, has been sidelined for the two-day warm game as he has yet to recover from the hamstring strain, picked during his mammoth 182-run knock.
Tags: