ST GEORGE’S (Grenada), April 9: Herschelle Gibbs is almost certain to miss Tuesday's crucial World Cup clash with West Indies here because of a calf strain as South Africa look to recover from their embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh.

“Herschelle is not more than 50-50,” said coach Mickey Arthur on Monday. “But we'll give him every opportunity right until the start of play to prove his fitness.”

Arthur said that in order for Gibbs to play, South Africa would need to be sure he could last 50 overs in the field and be able to run between wickets when he bats.

If Gibbs does not play, Loots Bosman is likely to open the batting, with A.B. de Villiers taking Gibbs's place at number four.

Arthur said the South Africans had put Saturday's 67-run loss to Bangladesh behind them.

“After the game the boys hurt a lot, which is a good thing. We had a good chat about it and we've closed the door on Bangladesh. We realise that we still hold the key to our destiny in this competition.”

Both Arthur and West Indies skipper Brian Lara said the new pitch at the rebuilt Queen's Park Stadium was damp on Monday morning and could help the faster bowlers early in the match, the first to be played at the ground in the tournament.

“When pitches are used for the first time in each island the fast bowlers enjoy the conditions,” said Lara, whose team have lost all three of their Super Eights games so far.—AFP