Proteas star Steyn rested

2008-06-26 22:52

Altus Momberg

Taunton - The Proteas will field, with the exception of fast bowler Dale Steyn, their strongest available team when they open their cricket tour of England with a match against Somerset on Sunday.

Steyn, South Africa's player of the year, will be given a rest after playing in each of the past 12 Test matches as well as in the recent Indian Premier League.

Proteas captain Graeme Smith, who is still recovering from a hamstring injury, is the only other member of the possible Test team who won't be playing on Sunday.

Smith, who was injured in India, hopes to play in the second warm-up match against Middlesex next week.

The skipper did not take part in the net practice on Thursday but did some jogging and said he hoped to be fit next week.

"I must confess it (the hamstring) feels better than I expected. Shane Jabaar (physiotherapist) is happy with my progress."

André Nel is expected to share the new ball with Makhaya Ntini in the match against Somerset, with Morné Morkel and spinner Paul Harris taking over from them.

Proteas coach Mickey Arthur said on Thursday that they intended selecting the probable Test XI for the warm-up against Middlesex. This weekend's outing will therefore be the last opportunity for Steyn to take a break.

"Morné has just recovered from an injury and needs some bowling to get into his stride," Arthur said.

- Die Burger