After the disappointment at the Wanderers we move to Kingsmead. Historically a good ground for South Africa, but it should help the Aussies as much as it does our team. There has been a lot of soul searching and hard words from the Proteas, and i’m hoping that the effect of that and a bit more cricket have gotten rid of the cobwebs, switched us on and motivated to go for that number 1 spot once more. This test we must deliver on our promise.

Whilst the selectors and coach are unlikely to make any changes, I think on a seamer friendly deck it would have been a good idea to bring in Albie Morkel instead of Harris. It would give another pace bowling option, and strengthen the batting. I’d also drop McKenzie and bring in Prince, somehow. Maybe move De Villiers to open the batting, and slot Prince in the middle order.

The Aussies also have some injury concerns, and if Siddle and Hilfenhaus can’t play they are in big trouble. Here’s hoping anyway. Whatever happens when we bat, we need to see off the new ball and really cash in on the second fiddle bowlers, and the strike bowlers as they tire. If we keep losing early wickets they get their tails up and we face all the pressure.

Whilst the toss will be important with a fair covering of grass likely to be rolled into the wicket, the main thing is making whatever discipline you have to perform count. If we bowl as we usually do against the Aussies we must break them for around 200. If we bat, we must score 400+ and build a first innings lead. We must put them under pressure. Unfortunately in every test we have been on the back foot and fought back against the odds. This time we must lead and subject them to the pressure. Then we will see them suffer.

I’m expecting to see us come out firing and exert some pressure on them from the start. This is our most crucial game since the World Cup semi-final. Pressure can do some funny things, and we have choked too often before, but this time i’m predicting a South African win, and a level series! Come on…