Tahir called up as Peterson cover

Imran Tahir has been added to the South African squad to face Pakistan, putting him in line for a Test comeback at the Wanderers on February 1.

Tahir's last Test came in Adelaide where he returned the second-worst figures by a South African. Only Nicky Boje's 0 for 221 in Colombo in 2006 has been more expensive than Tahir's first innings 0 for 180 in Adelaide.

But his recall will depend on the fitness of Robin Peterson, who split the webbing between his third and little finger on his right hand, an injury he is expected to recover from in time.

Peterson assumed the selection as first-choice spinner after Tahir was dropped for the Perth Test. Peterson then took 5 wickets at 21.80 in the 2-0 victory against New Zealand.

"We are confident that Robbie will be fit to play," Cricket South Africa selection convener Andrew Hudson said. "But it is prudent to have a cover player for him available to take a full part in the team's preparation this week."

Tahir will be keen to return against the country of his birth and add to his 11 Tests where he has taken 26 wickets but at a cost of 50.19. He has shown good form in recent Sunfoil Series matches, including 12 wickets against Dolphins with 7 for 64 in the second innings.