24th December 2009
South Africa coach Mickey Arthur is confident Dale Steyn will be fit to resume his new-ball duties in the second Test at Durban. The fast bowler came through 10 overs on Wednesday without any reaction and the hosts hope to make a final decision on Christmas Day.
Steyn was ruled out shortly before the toss at Centurion after pulling up stiff on the morning of the game, which allowed Friedel de Wet to make his debut and the 29-year-old produced a stunning new-ball burst on the final afternoon to almost snatch victory. However, despite an impressive first appearance, de Wet would be the man to miss out if Steyn makes his return.
England captain Andrew Strauss has said he is not worried about the form of fellow opener Alastair Cook in the run-up to the second Test on Boxing Day. Cook, who celebrates his 25th birthday on Christmas Day, scored 15 and 12 in the first Test at Centurion.
But Strauss said: "I am happy with the way he is playing and happy with some of the adjustments he has made".
England have to decide the make-up of their team for the match in Durban.
They only played four specialist bowlers in the drawn first Test at Centurion with specialist extra batsman Ian Bell only contributing seven runs in his two innings.
"We're very mindful of picking the right side for the conditions here," added Strauss.
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