Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen is looking forward to a staunch contest against the Proteas.

The Proteas and England will meet for four Tests this month and the next. The series opener will start at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Thursday.

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‘The thing about South Africans, and we saw it in the Rugby World Cup final, is that when they’re playing England they become different animals,’ Pieterseon told Betway.

‘There’s a fierce rivalry between the two countries, and they’ll have a point to prove.’

Pietersen also hailed the appointment of new Proteas head coach Mark Boucher and director of cricket Graeme Smith. Boucher has been hired until 2023, while Smith’s tenure will end in the first quarter of 2020.

‘I said in November that I’d like to see some big personnel changes made in South Africa, so I’m pleased that they’ve decided to go that way,’ added Pietersen.

‘Boucher and Smith are the right men for the job. They’ve picked people in positions where they have full credibility, who understand the game, and who can bring that passion and pride to South African cricket, which has been missing in the last few months.

‘The players should really want to impress these guys, and want to put on unbelievable performances. It’s a brilliant move.’

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