No.1 ranking a 'major boost for SA': Donald

Allan Donald believes the No.1 ranking has come at just the right time for South Africa © Getty Images

Allan Donald believes the No.1 ranking will be a huge psychological advantage to the South Africans going into the World Cup next month. Australia relinquished their top spot after losing the second ODI of the Chappell-Hadlee Series to New Zealand - their fifth loss in six matches - while South Africa romped to a 3-1 win against Pakistan.

"It's a great honour for South Africa, it's come at the right time," Donald, the former South African fast bowler, told BBC Five Live. "To win World Cups you need to have 15 players in form, or 15 players that you know you can pick one or the other. South Africa are just catching that momentum, they are just moving in with a lot more confidence. They played all right against Pakistan but I still think a few things need to be ironed out before the World Cup starts but this will give South Africa a massive boost."

However, Donald warned that Australia's defeat had made the World Cup a lot more open, with no team going in as the outright favourite. "I think it's anybody's cup this year, I think it's going to be closer than anyone thinks and I don't think one side is going to run away with it. England have got such a massive confidence boost beating Australia in Australia in the CB Series after being whipping boys in the Ashes."

Australia's World Cup preparations have suddenly gone off-track after a string of defeats and injuries to key players, the latest of which was a broken toe to Matthew Hayden. Commenting on the Australians, Donald said: "Maybe Australia are feeling the heat a little bit because I think there could be a few players who are really tired. The timing of it, although Australia will not admit it, going into the World Cup a little bit bruised and a few egos being hurt."