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Andrew Strauss believes the Test series between England and South Africa will be the "highlight of the summer".
The England captain is relishing taking on the Proteas, who will rise to the top of the world rankings if they win the three-match series.However, Strauss wants his side to prove they deserve their place as the number one side, adding the series is "up there with the Ashes".
"It is hard, competitive cricket between two good sides going toe-to-toe," said Strauss.
"This is a challenge for us to see where we're at. The rankings say we're number one. Well, we need to go out there and prove that now."
Ravi Bopara is set to bat at number six in the opening Test at The Oval after being recalled to the side, with Tim Bresnan and Steve Finnto fight it out to replace Graham Onions, who is suffering from a side strain.
Strauss admitted he is expecting the whole side to work hard to win the series. His men are2.10to win it outright, whilethe touristsare at3.10. A draw can be backed at3.80.
"When you're long in the tooth, as I am, you look forward to those challenges," said the skipper.
"It's not (just) going to be a battle between the opening bowlers and opening batters - everyone has got to put their hand up to be prepared to play tough cricket to win this series."
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