Opening Test blues frustrate Arthur

Mickey Arthur, the South African coach, has called for more rigorous preparation for future home Test series, following the 2-1 defeat against the Australians last week. Arthur said the rustiness that grips the team in the first Test match of a series has led to early defeats in each of the last three seasons. He felt a practice game would be necessary to get the team in shape.

"I am frustrated with the situation. That is why we got together five days before the first Test rather than the usual three days," Arthur told MWP. "A two-day game will be ideal. The batsmen can bat for a day and the bowlers bowl on the other. It's one thing training, but you can't underestimate the effect of game time."

Australia lost the opening Tests against India in Johannesburg and against West Indies in Port Elizabeth, but fought back to win the next two Tests and the series on both occasions. They lost the opening Test against Australia in Johannesburg this season but failed to mount a similar fightback and lost the series after the defeat in Durban.

The team has experienced similar first-Test blues on recent away tours but showed a lot of character to bounce back. They hit back after being asked to follow on at Lord's and in Perth, chased a mammoth 414 to set up their historic series win in Australia.

South Africa face England at home this summer and Arthur has suggested the team practice in smaller centres to avoid distractions.

"There are just too many commitments and things in Johannesburg that deflects attention," Arthur said. "Players are asked to do things for team sponsors and even their own sponsors. I believe the team will prepare a lot better in a small city or town."