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Chris Morris warns England batsmen ahead of third South Africa Test

Chris Morris looking to contribute in Johannesburg
Image: Chris Morris is looking to contribute with the ball in Johannesburg

South Africa paceman Chris Morris says England will have to deal with a lively wicket for the third Test in Johannesburg.

With the tourists 1-0 up heading into the third Test of four, the Proteas need to win to keep alive their hopes of taking the series.

And Morris, who called the ground home for seven years during his time with Highveld Lions, believes the Wanderers is the ideal place to do battle.

The Proteas drew with India at the venue last year, but that was the first time since 2000 that there had not been a positive outcome.

"I've said it before, the Wanderers is a result wicket - it's always been like that," said Morris.

"Throughout my years here there were very few draws. Everyone wants to play at the Wanderers. It's Cricket South Africa's home for a reason, it's the Bullring, it's exciting, it's a special place.

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"There's a little extra carry and bounce, maybe extra pace. There's always something in it for the bowlers."

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The 28-year-old Morris made his Test debut in Cape Town and contributed important lower-order runs as well as two stunning one-handed catches.

He also turned in an impressive stint with the ball on the final day, an impressive comeback having been a victim of Ben Stokes' record-breaking double-century in England's first innings.

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Watch Ben Stokes score the second fastest double century in history

Asked what he had learned from his maiden appearance, Morris added: "Don't bowl to Ben Stokes!

"Sometimes you've got to take it on the chin and say the guy played an unbelievable knock. I've never come across that in my career before and I hope I never do again.

"I made the joke that if he ever does that again he must hang up his boots and say he's the best ever. I've never seen anything like it.

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James Anderson says his fitness is good for England’s third Test with South Africa

"It was a baptism of fire. It went so quickly, it was one big rollercoaster of emotions. But it's been my lifelong dream. I told my mum when I was three years old I was going to play Test match cricket for South Africa."

Morris' all-round abilities make him a strong favourite to retain his place despite the return to fitness of Kyle Abbott and Hardus Viljoen's strong record on his ground.

Spinner Dane Piedt could be at risk despite two steady performances, with the Proteas weighing up a four-strong pace attack.

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