Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in their triangular series limited overs match with South Africa at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday.
Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath was again rested for the match after deciding to spend time with his family. McGrath’s wife was diagnosed with a recurrence of cancer last week.
South Africa suffered a major setback when pace bowler Shaun Pollock was ruled out with a bruised heel.
Pollock, who has been the most economical of the South African bowlers, was replaced by fast bowler Monde Zondeki.
The Proteas named Charl Langeveldt as supersub while spinner Johan Botha was included in the starting lineup on a perfect wicket.
For Australia, pace bowler Nathan Bracken returned to the side in place of Brett Dorey while James Hopes was named as supersub.
South African captain Graeme Smith conceded his attack lacked experience with Pollock being ruled out.
”They are young and inexperienced but hopefully we can make up for that with energy and some real competitiveness,” he told ABC radio.
The South Africans must win either this match, or their subsequent contest with Sri Lanka in Hobart on Tuesday, to reach the best-of-three finals series against Australia.
Teams
Australia: Ricky Ponting (c), Adam Gilchrist, Simon Katich, Damien Martyn, Andrew Symonds, Michael Clarke, Mike Hussey, Brad Hogg, Brett Lee, Nathan Bracken, Stuart Clark, James Hopes (supersub).
South Africa: Graeme Smith (c), Boeta Dippenaar, Herschelle Gibbs, Ashwell Prince, Justin Kemp, Mark Boucher, Jacques Rudolph, Andrew Hall, Johan van der Wath, Johan Botha, Monde Zondeki, Charl Langeveldt (supersub).
Umpires: Aleem Dar (Pakistan), Peter Parker (Australia) – Sapa-AFP