MELBOURNE, Dec 23: South Africa are hoping that doubts over the fitness of Australia's premier strike bowler Glenn McGrath and the Australian policy of fielding separate One-day and Test sides will help them take the first Test which starts here on Friday.

South Africa largely have kept together the Test and One-day teams, with only out-of-form Adam Bacher left out of the abbreviated game.They currently lead the Triangular One-day series, which also involve New Zealand.

Shaun Pollock and Lance Klusener struck form against Australia A in Brisbane last weekend and along with potent strike bowler Allan Donald, shape up as a cohesive, confident three-some to share the new ball against some less than certain Australian batsmen, most noticeably One-day skipper Steve Waugh.

As always, Warne looms as South Africa's bogey man with his leg spin wiles, yet Cronje is confident his team have finally mastered the art of playing against wrist spinner and believes Warne will not pose as great a threat.

The South African drew their leadup four-day match against Australia A with McGill returning the unflattering figures of 2-69 and 2-150.

``I do feel coming back from Pakistan and also playing against McGill in Queensland has helped us prepare a lot for his match,'' Cronje said.

``I think all of our players have improved against spin over the years. I am not saying Shane won't be a factor, I am saying our players play spin a lot better and it is a question of how patient we are against him.''

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.