15th December 2009
Andrew Strauss took one look at a green and patchy Centurion pitch this morning - and conceded England may have to make a last minute decision on the balance of their first-Test team on Wednesday.
Storms for much of the past week are perhaps responsible for the unpredicted appearance of the surface being prepared for the opening match of this four-Test series against South Africa.
But while Strauss and his opposite number Graeme Smith are both anticipating a significant change of hue by start of play, the England captain acknowledged there is some uncertainty about the best formula to start the campaign on a winning note.
"I don't know if I'll be more determined to play six batsmen or not," said Strauss.
"There's obviously a case if the wicket is going to do a huge amount for playing the extra batsman - that's quite clear - but I'm still not 100% sure how the wicket will play."
Strauss is wary of being duped into planning for a green seamer and finding out too late the pitch is more typical of its usual surroundings after all.
Click here For Match Odds
