Andrew Puttick joins South African squad

Andrew Puttick, a left-handed opening batsman from Western Province, has been named as cover for Herschelle Gibbs for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. Gibbs sprained his ankle during a training session last Thursday and is a doubt for the series.

Puttick, 23, has an impressive first-class record. He made his debut in the 2000-01 season, and has notched up 2062 runs in 28 games at 49, with a highest score of 250 not out. He was part of the A side that played against Sri Lanka A last season. What would also have counted in his favour is his experience of Sri Lankan conditions - he played the Under-19 World Cup there in 1999, and was among a squad which included Graeme Smith, the current captain, and Jacques Rudolph.

Commenting on his selection, Omar Henry, the convenor of selectors, said: "It is clear from Andrew's performances for his province and the South African A team that he is a player of skill and talent and he clearly has a good temperament. This will be a great opportunity for him to step up to the highest level."

Puttick himself expressed surprise over his inclusion. "I was driving to the mechanic to pay a bill for repairs to my car when I got a call from Eric [Eric Simons, the South African coach] who said that Herschelle was injured and that they wanted me to join the squad.It's something I have always dreamt about and its just fantastic to be part of the set up."

Puttick will be among the line-up that leaves for Sri Lanka on Monday, July 26. The South African board also revealed that Gibbs would travel with the squad and would undergo intensive treatment from Shane Jabaar, the physiotherapist. South Africa's tour begins with a three-day warm-up match on July 30, while the first Test starts on August 4, at Galle.