Today's third Test at Kensington Oval is pivotal to the series, a match West Indies cannot afford to lose after surrendering the initiative in Trinidad last week. South Africa found form then when it mattered most, on the final day, and this pitch is probably more suited to their all-round talent than any other on the tour. Another tight engagement is expected, with West Indies' improved showings in the first two Tests having recaptured the public's imagination. In stark contrast to the last time the sides met here, in the epic inaugural game nine years ago when about 200 turned up after a mass boycott over Anderson Cummins's omission, fans have queued in droves all week.
Insularity is the bane of Caribbean cricket, but a real sense of change and renewal is apparent.
It is hardly conceivable that he will feature but it reflects a welcome, some would say desperate, shift of emphasis. South Africa are likely to remain unchanged. C A Walsh. A A Donald, M Ntini.