The Redbacks response to a disappointing campaign on all fronts last time around has been pretty un-Australian as they have looked to recruit a star overseas batsman to steady the ship.

In Pakistan's Younis Khan they have a top quality performer and, although only initially signed until Christmas, with an option to return for the final, if he repeats the form he has shown for his country, and during his spell with Yorkshire, he could well post enough big scores to still be the top Shield run scorer, for which he is a 12/1 shot with Stan James.

In a squad appearing to lack the quality of some of their rivals the return of Shaun Tait is a huge boost. The big paceman 'retired' from cricket to sort out a few personal demons but if back firing on all cylinders will be the man the batsmen fear most with his ability to spear yorkers in at 90mph+.

The Australia selectors are liable to want to have a good look at him before entrusting him with wearing the Baggy Green again so he looks certain to play a full season down at the Adelaide Oval which is why bookies have been installed him as 5/1 favourite to be leading wicket taker in the first class game.

Despite the threat of Tait & the class of Younis, SA look set to struggle again even if, (or perhaps because of!), the rumours of former England skipper Michael Vaughan having a short stint for the Redbacks have any truth in them.