Freddie could affect team
South Africa claim the spectre of Andrew Flintoff may haunt England and play into their hands ahead of the first Test at Lord's this week.
Flintoff was not picked for the first Test but South Africa coach Mickey Arthur believes his shadow puts the other England bowlers under pressure.
He said: "The Freddie Flintoff factor lingers over England because he's too good a player not to be picked."
Anderson - I can bat well
James Anderson is hoping a greater focus on his batting could ensure an extended run in England's Test side.
The 25-year-old is preparing for this week's opening Test against South Africa and he knows he faces a fight to keep his place in the side.
Anderson said: "With all the other guys knocking on the door for the bowling spots, if I can offer some runs as well it might give me the edge."
Control key for Broad
England seamer Stuart Broad intends to use line and length to unsettle South Africa in the opening Test at Lord's.
The tourists have possibly the most feared pace attack in world cricket, but 21-year-old Broad will rely on accuracy rather than aggression to undermine the Proteas.
He said: "I don't think we need to meet their pace and bounce. We need to stick to what we've done well in the past."
Morkel in England warning
South Africa's emerging fast bowler Morne Morkel is promising to "crank up" the pace this summer - and warns he has his eyes on England's batsmen.
Morkel has eased his way back to fitness from a hamstring problem just in time for the start of the series.
He said: "When everything is feeling 100% and my rhythm is nice, I'll definitely be trying to crank it up. The ball is coming out nicely."
Birth won't stop Strauss
Andrew Strauss will continue playing with England during the first Test at Lord's even if news comes through of the birth of his second child.
The Middlesex opener's wife is expecting in the next week when England host South Africa, while the recent precedent has seen players wanting to be present at the birth.
Strauss said: "I owe it to my team- mates to be focused on the game."