Boucher: Playing again is scarier than debut

Mark Boucher was shocked when South Africa dropped him last November. But he admits to being even more surprised by the timing of his recall for tomorrow's Fourth Test against England in Johannesburg.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Boucher had made 75 consecutive appearances before being left at home for the tour of India.

Although the 28-year-old now accepts that his form in front of the stumps might have dipped a little, he was sufficiently upset at the time to seek a clear-the-air meeting with chief executive Gerald Majola following rumours that some people considered him a disruptive influence inside the dressing room.

Since then, South Africa have used two different keepers, Thami Tsolekile and Abraham de Villiers, and Boucher considered seeking a full-time playing career in England.

But now the former vice-captain is back in the fold and seems likely to play tomorrow.

"When Abraham started keeping I must admit I didn't think I was going to play against the English," said Boucher.

"But they obviously see me as an experienced player and feel they need a bit of experience in the squad.