Strauss expecting 'something special' from KP

Andrew Strauss senses some vintage Kevin Pietersen may be on the way for England in time for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa.

There were signs from Pietersen in the first-Test draw at Centurion that he may be approaching his best form again.

Asked about the significance of Pietersen's return and the likely favourable consequences for England, Strauss said: "I think his life has moved on a long way from when he was here as a youngster. But he might have a little bit more of a point to prove - as he often does in South Africa."

He added: "The way he batted in Centurion, I'm quite confident he's got something special for us this week."

Whether or not a gift-wrapped century arrives from Pietersen, one Englishman who needs runs more than most is opener Alastair Cook.

There has been just one half-century from him in his last 11 Test innings.

Strauss, in the form of his life this year but no stranger to periods of poor productivity in the past, retains faith in his fellow left-handed opener.

"I'm happy with the way he's playing and with some of the adjustments he's made," said the captain. "In cricket, there are times when it's tough.

"I've been through it; just about every member of our batting unit has been through it at one stage or another.

"I know Alastair has the right character and temperament. That's the most important thing. Ultimately it boils down to how much you're willing to guts it out - and I know Alastair will do that."