Strauss says England can bounce back

Published on 02/08/2012 00:00

Andrew Strauss admits it is “do-or-die” time for England as they attempt to cling on to their No 1 place in the Test rankings this week.

An innings-and-12-run defeat by South Africa at the Kia Oval last week has put the pressure on and defeat in the next Test, which starts at Headingley today, would see Strauss’ side concede top spot to the Proteas.

England suffered a trouncing. The batsmen failed to match South Africa’s mammoth 637 in two attempts, with the bowlers taking just two wickets. But Strauss is hopeful they can put their dismal performance behind them and level the series.

“The guys are determined to put South Africa under pressure,” he said. “We can’t afford to make any mistakes – it’s do-or-die time. But that sort of pressure can be a good thing as well.”