SOUTH Africa’s bowlers will be seeing Australian skipper Steve Waugh in the middle, as the gutsy batsman says he is confident of playing in this month’s one-day series despite suffering a wrist injury in New Zealand. Waugh retired hurt during Australia’s six-wicket win over New Zealand in the third Test when he was struck on the left wrist by paceman Daryl Tuffey. Waugh looked in pain but he batted on before he was forced to leave the field, throwing in doubt his chances of leading Australia in South Africa. “I’m pretty sure it’s OK but just when it hit it made a terrible noise and I didn’t feel good about it and every time I played inside out I had a sharp pain,” Waugh said. “I can move it but in the one direction it gives me pain.” If Waugh is ruled out of the series, selectors will be forced to choose another batsman, possibly allowing a return to the limited-overs game for in-form number-three Justin Langer. Leg spinner Shane Warne will lead the World Champions if Waugh cannot make the tour.
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