Peterson replaces Harris in Test squad

Robin Peterson, the left-arm spinner, has been called-up to the South African Test squad in Bangladesh as a replacement for Paul Harris, who requires surgery for an abscess. Harris, who needs about three weeks to recover, is expected to be fit for the tour of India in March-April.

Peterson has been in good form for the Warriors, picking up 24 wickets in ten SuperSport matches. He also finished the second-highest wicket-taker amongst the spinners, with Titans legspinner Imran Tahir ahead with 31 wickets.

"Robbie has shown excellent form in the SuperSport Series competition," said Joubert Strydom, the chairman of selectors. "It is also important to maintain consistency in selection. Robin and Johan Botha were our two spin bowlers in the South African A side that played the West Indies, so we have the same combination again. It is also important to have the variety offered by having a left-hander and a right-hander in our spin attack."

Peterson, largely a one-day specialist, last played a Test for South Africa in November 2004 against India. He is expected to leave for Bangladesh at the end of the week along with batsman Neil McKenzie, whose departure has been delayed for personal reasons.

South Africa play a three-day tour match in Fatullah, starting on Tuesday before the first Test in Dhaka from February 22.