Smith puts security concerns to one side

Graeme Smith insisted his team had put security concerns to one side and were mentally ready to take on Pakistan in Friday's opening one-day international. The five-match series will be played under unprecedented security, with the Pakistani authorities drafting in extra hoards of police and soldiers for each game.

Although Smith admitted the ongoing security saga had affected South Africa's preparations, he was still making the right noises. "I think two weeks of discussing security is definitely going to play on your mind. It definitely plays a role but after our practice and warm-up game we are now focusing on cricket."

Looking ahead to the first ODI at Lahore, which will be patrolled by 2,000 policemen and 150 elite commandoes, Smith said South Africa, like Pakistan, were rebuilding after the World Cup: "I think in many ways both teams are under similar situation, we have had three months in England where we have regrouped and we are here for the first time and we are still reorganising ourselves, looking for answers."

He added: "We have come here with a lot of positives after the England tour and we're looking to improve on a lot of things. We've come here to win, definitely, but it's going to be tough touring conditions so we need to adjust quickly and could be a little under-prepared on Friday."

Inzamam-ul-Haq, Pakistan's captain, said his team are confident after beating Bangladesh 5-0 in last month's ODI series. "South Africa are definitely a tougher opponent than Bangladesh, but our boys are very confident and I hope we keep the winning sequence," he said. "Our bowling is our strength but we need to put runs on the board to supplement our bowling."

Meanwhile, Javed Miandad, Pakistan's coach, has asked the crowds to be on their best behaviour, saying the country's image is at stake. "If they protest anything and there is trouble, it would disturb the match and could harm the image of the country," he said. "We have suffered a lot because teams were not travelling to Pakistan and fans were deprived. So I would appeal to the fans to enjoy the cricket."