England vs South Africa 2017: Vernon Philander Declared Fit For Lord’s Test
Jul 3, 2017 at 12:21 PM
South African pacer Vernon Philander has been declared fit for the first of the four-match Test series against England to be played at Lord’s from July 6.
The right-handed bowler did not participate in the practice game against the England Lions, where his services were dearly missed, as Kagiso Rabada failed to get early wickets with the new ball with Morne Morkel getting only one wicket.
Philander’s addition will be a big boost for the team, as he will have the main role in absence of injured Dale Steyn. This is only the second Test series for Morne Morkel after his comeback, thus Philander will spearhead the pace bowling line-up comprising of Morkel and Rabada. Philander’s inclusion means that there will be no Andile Phuhlukwayo in the side.
Meanwhile, South Africa is still waiting for the availability of skipper Faf du Plessis, who is yet to arrive in the UK after the birth of his first child. Any news on his availability is yet to be known. Selectors have already announced that Dean Elgar will lead the side in the first Test if Plessis fails to get back in time. (Read Here: Faf du Plessis Likely To Captain In Lord’s Test)
The Test series between the two countries kicks off from July 6 at Lord’s followed by the second game at the Trent Bride. The penultimate Test kicks off from July 27 before both the teams marks a closure of South Africa tour to England with the last Test match at Old Trafford from August 4.
South Africa have already lost three match ODI series and T20I series by a margin of 2-1. However, they have a chance to have the last laugh by emulating their performance of last time when they toured the country. Proteas defeated England by a margin of 2-0 in three match Tests series in 2012. Hashim Amla shone with the bat by piling 482 runs at an average of 120.50, which included an innings of 311* in the first Test at Kennington Oval, London.
Philander too has sweet memories of that series, as he grabbed 12 wickets in the three Tests. (Read Here: South Africa Squad For England Test)
(Read More: South Africa A Squad For Tri-Series)
(Read More: India A Squad For South Africa Series)