The Sports Lowdown For All Your News and OpinionsEngland head into the Test series with South Africa after a disappointing result in the UAE. However, these conditions are likely to suit them more and they should be able to give a better account of themselves.
The first test is in Durban with conditions looking to favour seam bowling, putting extra pressure on both sides fast bowlers.
England have already been dealt a big blow ahead of the match, with James Anderson being ruled out through a calf injury. England should not be completely disheartened as they have a top quality replacement in Steven Finn.
Finn is expected to lead the attack alongside Stuart Broad, with Chris Woakes taking up the role as the third seamer. They also have Ben Stokes who has shown some great form with the bat during their warm up matches and should be high on confidence.
South Africa may be lacking confidence after being thrashed by India, but will be a much better side back on home soil.
Their seam attack is world-class in their home conditions, with Steyn, Morkal and Philander taking wickets for fun. They will prove very hard for the inexperienced England batting line up to keep out and if on form, could win the game for South Africa within a couple of sessions.
Both teams batting relies heavily upon two players. Cook and Root for England, and Amla and De Villiers for South Africa. However, it will be interesting to see which batsmen can stand up and be counted, with the likes of Hales and Taylor looking to cement their spot in the line up for the future.
Overall, it should be an intense battle between bat and ball, with the side showing the most guts likely to come out on top, and with England’s new players being hungry to prove themselves could have the edge.
