Pollock fit to continue in ODI series

Shaun Pollock has been given the all-clear by doctors to continue playing in the ODI series against Australia. Pollock felt discomfort in his right knee during a net session last week and there was some doubt as to whether he would be able to contribute with both bat and ball in the five-match contest.

He played only as a batsman in South Africa's Twenty20 international win against Australia last week, but he was the pick of the bowlers in their opening six-wicket victory in the ODI series on Sunday. He finished with 3 for 23, instigating a top-order collapse with Makhaya Ntini from which Australia never fully recovered.

Pollock consulted a leading knee specialist and said he experienced considerably less pain during Sunday's game. The doctor confirmed the suspected cartilage injury was not as serious as originally thought. Shane Jabaar, the team physiotherapist, said Pollock would not do any hard impact training this week, but would practice with the squad on Wednesday and Thursday.

Meanwhile, Charl Langeveldt underwent surgery to repair the break to his left index finger on Tuesday. He suffered the fracture during a fielding session last week and is expected to be out of action for between four and six weeks.