Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene is set to strengthen the Asia XI batting line-up for the second Afro-Asia Cup one-day international against Africa XI in Durban, on Saturday.
Asia XI were bowled out for 196 in Centurion on Wednesday to lose the first match by two runs and captain Inzamam-ul-Haq said on Friday the batting would need to improve if the visitors are to win the series, which concludes with a third match in Durban on Sunday.
"The bowlers did very well in the first game and 199 was not a big total to get, but the batsmen are not doing well. Hopefully tomorrow they will bat better," Inzamam told reporters.
Asia XI coach Rumesh Ratnayake said the arrival of experienced Sri Lankan batsman Jayawardene would be a boost.
"Mahela is in town and he will strengthen the middle-order," Ratnayake said.
Asia XI also have two key injury worries to consider before choosing their team.
Off spinner Muttiah Muralitharan is the chief concern having been substituted after bowling nine overs in the opening match.
"Murali aggravated a groin injury in the first match, which is one of the reasons he did not bat. But we will have another look at him tomorrow morning because it is very important he plays," Ratnayake said.
Wicketkeeper Kumar Sangakkara is also doubtful for Saturday's match due to a hamstring strain.
The Africans will only be missing South African captain Graeme Smith, who is sitting out the final game of a four-match ban imposed by the International Cricket Council in May for slow over-rates against the West Indies.
Explosive batsman Justin Kemp showed no ill effects after being struck a painful blow on the foot by Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar on Wednesday.
Paceman Dale Steyn, whose dismissal of Ashish Nehra in the 49th over clinched victory and prompted wild celebrations by the Africans at Centurion, bowled in the nets on Friday and was not troubled by assorted blows to the hands and ribs he took from Shoaib.
