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South Africa in Bangladesh 2007-08

South Africa's bowlers in for hard work - Arthur

Cricinfo staff

February 20, 2008

	South Africa's quick bowlers are taking a while to adjust to Bangladesh conditions © AFP

South Africa's build-up to their two-Test series against Bangladesh has hardly been ideal. Firstly there was the selection row before the team left home, then the bowlers took a hammering during their warm-up match against a Bangladesh Cricket Board XI.

The Test attack was taken for 412 in a little more than 100 overs with only Johan Botha coming out with anything like complimentary figures. However, coach Mickey Arthur believes his side are shaping up nicely ahead of the first Test on Friday despite Dale Steyn, Makhaya Ntini and Morne Morkel returning combined figures of 5 for 219 from 57 overs.

"We had a long chat soon after we arrived from Fatullah Stadium. We opened up to speak about all aspects of our game and that included the plans for the two Tests that we are heading into from Friday," Arthur told the Cape Argus. "We have come to the realisation that Bangladesh will not roll over and die in their conditions. They will be a difficult batting side to dislodge if we approach the Tests in the manner we played their Board XI."

Arthur said the team's fast bowlers will have to adapt and can't expect to run in and blast sides out as they might do on the surfaces back in South Africa. "We spoke about our bowling and have decided that we have to be a little more defensive in our approach to field placings. The bowlers will have to be a lot more circumspect about their lines and lengths and the channels they bowl to gain success."

Although there wasn't time for South Africa to gain much of a second innings, Arthur was pleased with the warm-up match. "I believe we got a lot out of the game, but there's still a lot to do. We'll be working hard over the two remaining days before the Test to get to where we want to be."

Andre Nel, recovering from a hamstring injury, was restricted to eight overs against the BCB XI as he recovers from a hamstring injury and Arthur said he will be assessed closer to the start of the Test.

© Cricinfo