South Africa star Jacques Kallis says Kevin Pietersen’s absence in the Third and final Test of their series is a “big loss” for England.
The veteran English batsman was overlooked for the final Test which starts at Lord’s on Thursday, following a row where it is alleged he sent derogatory text messages to the members of the South African team during the second Test regarding skipper Andrew Strauss and coach Andy Flower.
And Kallis admitted Pietersen’s absence from the final Test of the series, which England trail 1-0, would be felt for the hosts, but said they still had to quality to remain strong.
“He’s a world class player. Any time he’s not in your side it does make a big difference. I think they’re going to miss his experience for sure but cricket’s not a one man sport,” Kallis said.
“There are 11 guys who can take a Test match away from us. We’re certainly not preparing in any other way than we would do if he was playing. It is a big loss for England.”
Jonathan Bairstow has replaced Pietersen in the England squad for the Test, which has been overshadowed by the controversy over the past week.
However, England bowler Tim Bresnan said Bairstow had the talent to adequately replace Pietersen.
“It may be an even better side, it’s one of those things where a talented player is being replaced by another talented player,” Bresnan said. “So why should we miss a certain individual because he’s unavailable for selection?”
Meanwhile, spinner Graeme Swann is likely to be recalled too, after missing the Headingley match as England went with a seam attack.
South Africa, on the other hand, are far more settled and Kallis added the team was maturing and hoping to finish off the series on a winning note as they aim for the world number one Test ranking.
“The guys are maturing and learning a lot from the way we’re doing things. Hopefully the experiences we’ve had in the past, the guys will be able to tap into and pull us through and bring it out in this Test match,” he said.
“It is a mature side and experienced side who know exactly what their roles are and exactly how to go about their business. That does make life a lot easier. Knowing how to go about your business which is different than having a young side who don’t.”