Domingo to stick with Peterson

Coach Russell Domingo has all but confirmed batsman JP Duminy and all-rounder Robin Peterson's presence in South Africa's first-choice XI for this month's Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Coach Russell Domingo has all but confirmed batsman JP Duminy and all-rounder Robin Peterson's presence in South Africa's first-choice XI for this month's Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Duminy recently returned to international cricket after 11 months on the sidelines due to an Achilles heel injury. The talented Faf du Plessis was, subsequently, a very adequate replacement.

The out-of-form Jacques Rudolph's fall from favour, however, will facilitate space for both Duminy and du Plessis in the same team. The left-handed Dean Elgar, meanwhile, remains in the pecking order.

"How we've worked is that when a player has a spot and he gets injured, once he is fit again, he will regain his spot. I think that's only fair. I very much see JP being in the starting XI," said Domingo.

Leg-spinner Imran Tahir has not played a Test since late 2012, but has been named in the 15-man touring party. He isn't likely to feature in the playing XI ahead of fellow slow bowler Peterson, though.

"At the moment, I still feel Robbie is the guy. He has made some contributions. You are always going to take two spinners to the sub-continent, but Imran has to do something special to knock the door down," added Domingo.

The first Test will get underway at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on 14 October. The Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host the second and final fixture.

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