But the 36-year-old, despite a test average of 48.48 for his 58 wickets in 21 tests, has caught the eye for the selectors. His ability to turn the ball away from the lefthanders got him into the ODI series, with decent success. South Africa's probable test top seven will include three lefthanders - opener Dean Elgar, JP Duminy and wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock - which enhances Patel's chances. Patel and Jimmy Neesham are in although Neesham is a strong candidate to be one of the two to sit the test out. He made 71 in his most recent test, in Indore in October and has been in good touch in the ODI series.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 02, 2017 23:03 UTC