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Dippenaar likely to play

Our Rediff correspondent

News from the South African camp seems to indicate that Boeta Dippenaar, a 23-year-old opening batsman, is likely to be Gary Kirsten's partner when the South Africans take to the field for the first Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Dippenaar has played two tests but hasn't donned South African colours since January. However, although he scored only 42 runs in two innings (once unbeaten) in the tourists' practice game against a Sri Lankan Board XI, it seems that his temperament and footwork have impressed the South African team management.

According to Coach Graham Ford, "Boeta looked at ease in front of the wickets, which is a good sign when one takes into consideration that he has not played for so long."

He went on to say, "It must be very difficult for him. He looked good while putting in a lot of work in the nets, but it's time in the middle that counts. What impressed me most today, was how well he uses his feet. That is a sign that there is nothing wrong with his playing. He was unlucky in his first innings."

As for the more prolific Neil Mckenzie, who top scored with 181 runs, Ford was more reserved, saying, "The more guys maintain a good level of play, the better, because there is always the chance of an injury or two."

"Neil's innings created a situation that I actually welcome - the competition is very healthy for the team. And I must add that his performance did not surprise me at all. He had a good season at home and featured against the touring teams. I was actually sitting waiting for something like this to happen."

Further good news for the South Africans is that left-arm wrist spinner, Paul Adams has recovered from his injury much faster than the team expected. After Monday's match, Adams bowled a few balls on the outfield, but without a run-up.

Daryll Cullinan, who missed the Singer Cup final through injury, seems to have recovered as well and is probably going to play, according to Ford.