South Africa's Morne Morkel keen to take on England's James Anderson
Thursday 24 December 2015 08:09, UK
South Africa seamer Morne Morkel wants to see England's James Anderson passed fit for the Boxing Day Test for the good of the series.
Anderson, who has taken 426 wickets in 110 Tests, is a major doubt for the tourists due to a calf problem that has been lingering since the beginning of the trip.
The 33-year-old's absence would be a boost to the South Africa's prospects but, having seen their own strike bowler Dale Steyn come through a fitness test after groin trouble, the hosts appear keen to have the best players on show.
"He's their senior bowler, a guy who leads from the front. That's a big blow for the series if he doesn't play," said Morkel.
"There's a lot of talk about the bowling line-ups and the spearheads, we just want the best for this summer. If Jimmy is fit, it's great for cricket.
"I have got a lot of respect for Jimmy. His skill with the ball is quality. That's why I really hope he is fit to showcase that.
"Him and Dale, it would be unbelievable to see those two head to head."
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South Africa batsman Temba Bavuma shared those sentiments, even though he expects conditions in Durban to suit Anderson's style.
"You want to test yourself against the best as we did in India - we went there and were tested against the best," he said.
"Here with the ball swinging and nipping around, you also wanted to be tested against the best."
While England may not rule Anderson in or out until the very last minute, Steyn looks to have put his fitness concerns firmly behind him.
The 32-year-old missed the team's last three Tests in India but has been back at his fiery best in the nets over the past 48 hours.
"Dale has got a bit of sideline fever and he is ready to go," Morkel added.
"He has really worked hard. You can just see the venom he has been bowling with in the nets today and it's exciting. There's been a lot said about him on social media and off the field and he will be ready to prove a point."
Coverage of the first Test between South Africa and England in Durban gets underway at 7.30am on Boxing Day morning on Sky Sports 2, or watch without a contract on NOW TV.
