Kyle Abbott may just be in the Proteas squad as injury cover, but for the fast bowler it is the culmination of a lifelong dream.

The Dolphins man was added to the South African party for the third Test against Pakistan after Morne Morkel was ruled out of the encounter due to a hamstring strain.

While Rory Kleinveldt will take Morkel's position in the starting XI, Abbott's maiden elevation to the national squad marks a big moment in the 25-year-old's career.

"It's a dream come true," Abbott told Cricket365. "Everyone growing up in South Africa wants to play for the national side and I'm just fortunate enough to be one of the lucky ones.

"For me Test cricket is still the ultimate format and do be chosen for the Test squad is an amazing honour."

Abbott's selection comes on the back of strong form in the domestic four-day competition in which he finished as the leading wicket-taker, with the second best average. More recently Abbott ended with match figures of seven for 108 in a tour match against Pakistan prior to the first Test.

Despite his strong form, Abbott admits that the call-up came as a surprise.

"When you're playing for the A team and the invitation team you know that you might be the next in line but you never know if or when your opportunity will ever come," he explained.

When Abbott first made his first class debut in 2009, he appeared to be a bit of a trundler who did a bit with the ball and perhaps not a real Test prospect. However, Abbott - while still not express pace - has the ability to swing the ball prodigiously and a strong work ethic and attitude to go with it. It is here that Abbott points to the influence of Dolphins coach Lance Klusener.

"A lot of credit must go to Lance, he's really changed my mental game and been influential in what I have achieved," said Abbott.

"I've been given a lot more responsibility with the ball and given the opportunity to lead the Dolphins attack and I've just put my hand up whenever I can and look to take wickets and it's paid off."