The Proteas batsmen are likely to face a unique test with Pakistan likely to draft in giant quick Mohammad Irfan for his debut. At 7'1" Irfan would be the tallest player to play Test cricket.
"We were all surprised when Irfan wasn't selected for the first Test because he offers something different," Petersen said.
"We've done our homework on him and he's the type of bowler we've never faced in our lives.
"I'm sure he'll play in the second Test so we will have to prepare well for him and try and find a way or come up with a technique to play him."
Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq is confident his side can bounce back, but rubbished suggestions they would reinforce their batting line-up after the opening-Test capitulation.
"Wherever you go in the world, six batsmen and a wicketkeeper have to take responsibility," he said.
"We are improving, in terms of batting and in terms of attitude. I am really confident that these guys can fight back. Whenever we've had tough times, we have been able to come out of it."
