Proteas set to make changes
Jan 02 2010 - 11:07:13
Coach Mickey Arthur has hinted at dramatic changes to the South Africa line-up ahead of the third Test against England.
The South African media has savaged the side following the innings and 98-run defeat to England in Durban in the second Test.
Another defeat at Newlands would end the series with one match still remaining and Arthur - whose own position has come under scrutiny - believes changes will be made to the side.
"We had a pretty serious discussion after the Durban Test," he admitted. "It certainly isn't panic stations but we asked each other a lot of questions.
"We need to a win a Test match. Whether it's one change or two changes, I'm not sure.
"There are going to be some tough decisions to be made and I'm pretty sure we'll make the correct ones."
Makhaya Ntini is believed to be the player most in danger of being dropped and Arthur has given a strong indication that the out-of-sorts paceman is likely to find himself out in the cold following two disappointing displays.
"It's the same as with any 'icon' cricketer - you tend to give them a little bit of a longer run, because they have earned it," he added.
"Makhaya has certainly earned that, and I'm not for one minute saying he isn't going to play this Test.
"That's something we need to assess over the next two days. Like a couple of other players, he does come in under a little bit of pressure - and how he works it over the next two days will be instrumental in what we see as our best attack going forward."