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| December 8, 2003 | Monday | Shawwal 13, 1424 |
Kirsten doubtful starter for first Test
JOHANNESBURG, Dec 7: Gary Kirsten will decide by Monday whether to remain by his pregnant wife’s side or play for South Africa in the first Test against West Indies, the United Cricket Board (UCB) said on Sunday.
Stalwart batsman Kirsten, 36, was named in a 14-man squad for the first Test starting in Johannesburg on Friday. His wife is expecting their first child within the week.
Martin van Jaarsveld will play should Kirsten withdraw.
Left-arm wrist spinner Paul Adams and batsman Boeta Dipenaar have been dropped after playing in South Africa’s recent Test against Pakistan.
“Although Adams is recovering well from the hand injury he sustained last week, we feel that conditions would not be ideal for him at the Wanderers,” selection convenor Omar Henry said in a UCB media release.
All-rounder Andrew Hall, suspended for two Tests in Pakistan after a clash with Yousuf Youhana, and paceman Andre Nel have been recalled.
The only surprise was the inclusion of uncapped fast bowler Garnett Kruger, who has taken 18 wickets at 30.05 apiece in first-class matches this season.
Squad: Graeme Smith (captain), Mark Boucher, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Hall, Jacques Kallis, Gary Kirsten, Neil McKenzie, Makhaya Ntini, Andre Nel, Robin Peterson, Shaun Pollock, Jacques Rudolph, Martin van Jaarsveld, Garnett Kruger.—Reuters
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