It’s well documented that the wicket on the South Island is seam-friendly and much less conducive to spin.

The national side seems to be clear on their number three batter, but including a spin bowler may still be on the cards.

Proteas captain, Dean Elgar, and Aidan Markram can both be used as spinners if the need arises.

Elgar indicated that it may be a waste to play a spinner.

“It's a hot topic of debate for us at the moment, whether to use a frontline spinner or not.

“I think that ties in with one of the biggest decisions that we have to make - whether there is space for a spinner in conditions that don't necessarily suit a spinner.

“History has shown so far that a spinner doesn't serve too much of a role at the Hagley Oval. I can't say yes or no just yet.”

The 1st Test between the Black Caps and Proteas at the Hagley Oval gets underway at 23:30.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport