Pollock took the reins as South African captain at short notice following the resignation of Hansie Cronje.

But, despite being reckoned too fiery to take the job long-term, he has fitted into the role well, taking greater responsibility with his bowling and finally reaching potential with the bat.

Despite accusations of strategic naivety in South Africa's 3-0 Test drubbing in Australia, he retained the faith of the selectors for the home series, only to miss all three games because of a side strain.

His main strength lies in his ability to bowl a tight line with aggression and swing the ball both ways but he desperately needs better new-ball support than he is currently getting.

Pollock's long-awaited maiden Test century against Sri Lanka in February 2001 marked him out as one of the finest all-rounders in the game.