Loots Bosman returns to the Proteas’ starting line-up for Friday’s first Pro20 against England and will open the batting with Graeme Smith.

Nothing that happened before counts — the real contest starts on Friday, say Dale Steyn ahead of the Proteas’ opener against England on Friday.

England captain Andrew Strauss told his players to show ”character” after a thrashing by Australia left them on the brink of a series whitewash.

Whatever the result of the Oval Test, this has been an Ashes series of high drama — if rarely of the highest quality.

The ferocious competitiveness that was once the hallmark of Australian cricket looks in danger of being eroded.

Peter Siddle’s two late wickets helped Ashes holders Australia regain momentum at the end of the opening day of the first Test against England.