England ponder all-pace attack for first Test

PRETORIA, December 23

England are considering an all-pace attack for the first Test against South Africa in Pretoria starting on Boxing Day, but their plans will depend on whether they can get Jofra Archer and Stuart Broad fully fit. Both fast bowlers had net sessions today and came through unscathed, but have not bowled in match conditions on the tour after being laid low by flu over the past week.

With James Anderson only recently back to full fitness after an extended spell on the sidelines, there may be concerns about any of them breaking down, but England coach Chris Silverwood said they would trust the players on how they feel.

“Broady, if he tells me he is fit then I have to believe him. He has got a lot of experience under his belt and he knows his body,” Silverwood said.

“Jofra has had two good days (in the nets) and as long as his pace is up and he feels good, then he will be a serious contender for selection.”

Silverwood admits an all-pace attack on what is traditionally a bouncy pitch on the Highveld is something they are considering. “We are looking at what is most effective on this ground. We have got some good recent results from the spin-bowling department,” he said.

Other seam options include Chris Woakes, Sam Curran, Ben Stokes, Mark Wood and Craig Overton. — Reuters

Philander announces international retirement

Johannesburg: Seasoned South Africa pacer Vernon Philander will retire from international cricket following the upcoming Test series against England. Philander was an important part of the Proteas pace troika, comprising Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel, both of whom have retired from Tests. Philander, 34, mainly represented South Africa in the longest format, and has played 60 Tests in comparison to 30 ODIs and seven T20Is. He has taken 216 wickets at an impressive average of 22.16, including 13 five-wicket hauls. Philander did not have the pace of Morkel and Steyn but troubled the batsmen by swinging the ball both ways. He also took a record-breaking 51 wickets in his first seven Test matches which earned him the 2012 SA Cricketer of the Year accolade.