Arthur confident of upstaging Indians

Kanpur, Apr 9 (UNI) High on confidence after trouncing India in the second Test at Ahmedabad, South African coach Micky Arthur today said his team was well equipped to counter the turning track prepared to suit the home team's spinners.

''We expected such a wicket for this match after what happened in Ahmedabad. The wicket will go through the top very early but we are prepared for it. We are quite confident of doing well in this match also,'' Arthur told mediapersons here.

The debacle at Ahmedabad has prompted the curators to remove the grass on the Green Park track with the pitch expected to break quickly. Arthur was, however, not too worried.

''We are prepared for all the eventualities. We expect India to go in with three spinners in such conditions,'' he said.

''We also have the option of two spinners but we have not taken a decision on the team composition yet. I expect the track to deteriorate quickly.'' He also asserted that fast bowler Dale Steyn, who rattled the Indians with his lighting pace in the last Test, will be available for this match.

''Dale has a little niggle but it is not serious. He will play.

There are no injury issues in the team. All the other players are in good shape,'' he said.

Emphasing that the toss will play a crucial role, Arthur said,''It will be a huge toss to win. Sometimes it is sad when the toss becomes so crucial. We will be happy if it lands in our favour.'' South African seamer Morne Morkel was also upbeat about his side's chances saying that the pitch will have something to offer for the spinners.

''I am looking forward to the match. It is a great opportunity to win a series in India. I will go into the match with a positive mindset,'' he said. ''I think there will be something in it for the pacers also. We have to get the basics right.'' UNI XC AB RK1845