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Boje and Dawson in fitness battle for semis

Former champions South Africa are hopeful injured fast bowler Alan Dawson and all-rounder Nicky Boje will recover in time to face India in the Champions Trophy semi-finals on Wednesday, a team official said on Monday.

The squad was boosted on Monday by the arrival of 37-year-old pace bowler Steve Elworthy and uncapped all-rounder Robin Peterson as cover for the injured duo.

"We still have some hope that Boje and Dawson may recover," the official said on Monday.

Boje suffered a hairline fracture attempting a return catch during his side's last-ball win over West Indies 10 days ago while Dawson aggravated a calf injury during Friday's second pool C triumph over Kenya.

Dawson's chances of playing have improved after he underwent light training for the first time in three days on Monday while Boje's injury to his right ring finger is improving.

Boje and Dawson could be the key to South Africa's bowling hopes on a placid pitch as they aim to reverse their semi-final defeat to India in the previous edition in Nairobi two years ago.

Peterson and Elworthy played for South Africa A in the home series against Australia A which ended last week.

Peterson, 23, who bowls left-arm and bats right-handed, travelled to Sri Lanka two years ago as cover for left-arm spinner Paul Adams but did not play. Elworthy played the last of his 38 one-dayers this January.

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