Desert Storm

I fear it could well be a long month in the United Arab Emirates. My suspicions are fuelled ironically by the 'home' team's lack of a united front. Rarely have two cricket teams displayed such stark contrasts.

South Africa are storming in the desert and showing no signs of reducing their firepower. They relish playing against disorganised opposition and delight in grinding them into submission.

For Pakistan to enjoy some success in this desert duel and get a derailed campaign back on track, they had to hit their straps early.

The harsh reality is they have hardly hit anything, with their batsmen capitulating at a more startling rate than Dubai's economy. A bail-out is needed but benefactors are scarce.

An uncertain group of men wearing predominantly lime green have unsuccessfully masqueraded as a team up until now and have suffered embarrassing losses. Once or twice a flicker of hope has been fanned only to be snuffed out by a hungry and professional unit.

South Africa have shown intent and commitment that have smothered any semblance of Pakistani flair.

The South African squad is determined to express themselves in a manner we should have seen for years.

They want to take calculated risks to succeed where previously a siege mentality hampered progress at crucial junctures.

Yes, it's early days and yes it's only Pakistan, who have been rocked and ravaged by revelations, but the intentions are clear and encouraging.

In just under four months the World Cup gets underway and already competition for South African spots is intensifying.

Like many other teams in world cricket right now there is no room for sentiment and lead-in performance will be rewarded.

An injection of unscarred youth will drive ambition and that, coupled with the selection of trusted experience, will provide a perfect balance.

A true test and gauge will present itself in a couple of months' time when a team with backbone and resilience will challenge on South African soil. Only then will Smith truly know how his squad is shaping up.

In stark contrast Pakistan will continue on a confusing path of self destruction, as planning and strategy relies heavily on a healthy dose of good fortune.

Luck plays little part in true success.