Proteas will pose a strong challenge to England: Nasser Hussain

England secured a 3-0 victory against New Zealand

Nasser Hussain believes England will face a stern challenge from South Africa in the three-match Test series beginning on Wednesday (17 August) at Lord's. 

Last month, both teams tied the ODI series 1-1, while South Africa secured a 2-1 victory in the T20I leg. 

The English red-ball team has dominated the home summer with a clean sweep against New Zealand and winning a one-off fixture against India. 

However, South Africa currently sits at the top of the World Test Championship 2021-23 Table with the best point percentage. 

Hussain thinks the Proteas bowlers have displayed the capability to stun England in the past, and will present a daunting task for the Stokes-led team as well. 

“When England take the field against South Africa at Lord’s on Wednesday, their greatest wish will be to continue the momentum built up during four remarkable victories against New Zealand and India. I fancy them to win the series, but it won’t be easy," said Hussain on his column on Daily Mail. 

“South Africa are top of the World Test Championship, and keep churning out results under the gritty leadership of Dean Elgar. Recently, they came from behind to beat India at home.

Hussain hails England's mindset, but urge them to play with caution

Root and Bairstow will hold the key

Hussain added that the team has to put their Bazball style in a locker, if a ball is nipping around in overcast conditions. 

The former skipper further urged the opener Zak Crawley to re-watch his dismissals against India to not throw away his wicket, and rather set the tone for the team at the top. 

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