Pollock singles out Indian bowling ahead of opener

South Africa captain Shaun Pollock singled out the experience of India's bowling attack as the tourists' biggest asset ahead of Friday's first one day international between the teams in Johannesburg.

"India have got four of their most experienced players in this side," Pollock said at South Africa's final net practice at the Wanderers on Thursday.

"Javagal Srinath (seam bowler) has been around for years and has had two tours to South Africa.

"Venkatesh Prasad (seam bowler) has also been here before and so has Ajit Agarkar (seam bowler). And then you have Anil Kumble (leg spinner) whose played so many games.

"I think one of India's strengths is their bowling. They've also got a settled batting lineup now with Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid. And they've got some good young talent so I think they're looking pretty good."

Pollock expressed equal confidence in the variety of South Africa's attack on a Wanderers pitch that is expected to have bounce and pace.

"We've got a good mix of youth and experience in our bowling. There's myself, Jacques Kallis (seam bowler) and Lance Klusener (seam bowler) who've been around for awhile.

"Andre Nel (fast bowler) has just come on the scene, and he's been an exciting find for us. Then we've got Claude Henderson (spinner) whose also new and Justin Kemp (seam bowler). So it's a good mix."

The one name missing is that of fast bowler Allan Donald, who has been sidelined due to influenza and a strained stomach muscle.

"You're always going to miss someone like Donald. But hopefully the enthusiasm of the young guys can make up for that loss."

India captain Ganguly was quick to dispel any doubts about his availability for the match after injuring his finger in a tour match against the Nicky Oppenheimer XI.

"My finger's fine and I'll be ready for the game," he said.

Ganguly said Wednesday's three wicket victory over a strong South Africa A side did expose some weaknesses in their fielding.

"We could have done a bit better with our fielding in the match against South Africa A. But they are a strong side so I thought we did well to beat them.

"Overall, the preparations have gone well. We played two games and are pretty happy with the way we've played."

Ganguly did not want to speculate on the team that will take to the field on Friday.

"We haven't decided on the 12 players yet, but if its a hard and green pitch the seamers will definitely get a go. We'll see the track on the morning of the match and that will decide our team composition."

Mail Cricket Editor