It's gonna be a tense Test, warns Smith

Updated on: 02 January,2011 07:02 AM IST |
Sai Mohan |

Since their readmission to cricket, South Africa's record here at Newlands has been impeccable. In 21 Tests, they have won fourteen, drawn four and lost just thrice, incidentally all against Australia

Since their readmission to cricket, South Africa's record here at Newlands has been impeccable. In 21 Tests, they have won fourteen, drawn four and lost just thrice, incidentally all against Australia.

This point was driven home by SA skipper Graeme Smith, who is particularly satisfied after looking at the surface prepared for the third and final Test against India. "This pitch will have a little more bounce and carry than the previous few Tests. I am very pleased to see that," Smith said.

Smith dismissed claims that it was India who hold the momentum after the visitors' 87-run win at Kingsmead. "Momentum is a subjective thing. These days, Test matches are played so quickly, within a space of few days. Pressure will be on both teams. It is going to be a tense Test match," he said.

Asked to react to coach Corrie van Zyl's comments about S Sreesanth sledging Smith in the previous Test, Smith said: "There is no bad blood between the teams. It is just one individual who crossed the line, we can't do anything about it.

Both teams are mature. MS Dhoni and I had a chat last night and sorted the issue out. Both teams respect each other and believe the series be played in the right spirit."

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