Pollock withdraws from second Test

South Africa's captain Shaun Pollock has withdrawn from the second Test against Australia at Newlands on Friday further disrupting their preparations after batsmen Daryll Cullinan walked out over a contract dispute.

Pollock has not recovered from the side strain that forced him to withdraw from the first Test in Johannesburg and his place will be taken by all rounder Andrew Hall, who will be making his Test debut after 18 one-day internationals.

"Shaun has not recovered to a point where he could bowl at full pace or for a sustained period," South African team physiotherapist Craig Smith said on Tuesday.

"Shaun had a scan yesterday which showed he hasn't healed enough and he tried to bowl in the nets this afternoon, but he still felt it.

"We were always dealing with a side strain, which is an injury that takes several weeks to heal and we were being optimistic about having him fit for this Test match.

"I would have to say that Shaun is doubtful for the Durban Test too, but we will have to assess the situation as we go along," Smith said.

The convenor of national selectors, Rushdi Magiet, confirmed that Hall would replace Pollock in the team, but a captain and 12th man would be announced on Wednesday.

Cullinan walked out just 24 hours after expressing delight at his recall because he was not offered a contract.

Two Test matches or six one-day internationals automatically earn a contract but the national selectors said they wanted to see Cullinan play before recommending him for one.

He has been replaced in the team by 20-year-old Western Province left-hander Graeme Smith as South Africa look to end a run of four Test defeats to Australia in less than three months.

Mail Cricket Editor