Benoni: The Champions Trophy failure was another blot for the team at global events, but South Africa still have an impressive one-day pedigree.

They will take the opportunity to look at a few of their fringe players against Zimbabwe and strong performances could lead to more rewards down the line.

Ryan McLaren has waited a long time for his international chance. It almost came last year, but he had to withdraw from the squad to face Kenya and Bangladesh because of his Kolpak status with Kent in England. Now he has left that behind and given South Africa another crack.

Zimbabwe didn't have a particularly happy time in Bangladesh, but Brendan Taylor ended the series in fine style with an unbeaten 118 off 125 balls - his maiden ODI hundred. He is a key part of the top order as it develops for the future and a possible return to Test level. Taylor is capable of dominating attacks and is also important in balancing the side with his role as wicketkeeper.

Teams

South Africa have announced their line-up a day ahead of the match with Ryan McLaren named for his international debut following the end of his Kolpak time in county cricket. There are also recalls for the hard-hitting Alvrio Petersen, swing bowler Charl Langeveldt and left-arm quick Lonwabo Tsotsobe.

Squad (likely): Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Mark Boucher (wk), Alvrio Petersen, Albie Morkel, Ryan McLaren, Johan Botha, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe, Charl Langeveldt.

Zimbabwe' captain Prosper Utseya injured his ankle in Bangladesh and Zimbabwe missed his bowling skill so his fitness will be closely monitored. Zimbabwe are likely to need more pace options than they used in Bangladesh which could mean a recall for Kyle Jarvis who has made a promising start to his career.

Squad (likely): Mark Vermeulen, Hamilton Masakadza (capt), Brendan Taylor (wk), Elton Chigumbura, Malcolm Waller, Stuart Matsikenyeri, Chamu Chibhabha, Ray Price, Graeme Cremer, Kyle Jarvis, Chris Mpofu.

Sats and trivia

• South Africa have an overwhelming 24-2 advantage in head-to-head matches against Zimbabwe.
• The last time the sides met was for a three-match series in Zimbabwe in 2007, when the visitors eased to a 3-0 victory.

Match facts
Sunday November 08, 2009
Start time: 10:00 local time (08:00 GMT)

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