Pollock to miss opener

Shaun Pollock has been ruled out of the first of the three ODIs against Zimbabwe at home, to be played tomorrow (Friday) at Johannesburg, as a result of an ankle injury.

His potential replacement, Andre Nel, too is doubtful, as a persistent hamstring problem had rendered him incapable of participating in net sessions. This gives all-rounders Andrew Hall and Albei Morkel to make a mark with the ball, and try to cement their place in the side.

Skipper Graeme Smith will play though, despite being affected by an ankle injury; while Justin Kemp, if failed to pass fit on the morning, will be replaced by batsman Adam Bacher.

South Africa is already without Jacques Kallis, who has been rested for the series.