England ODI team a formidable force: Smith

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London: South Africa captain Graeme Smith has described England’s one-day team as a 'formidable force'.

England have won the last six ODIs between the two countries and another victory on Friday would ensure they are in an unbeatable position in a series reduced to four matches after the Wanderers wash-out.

Smith said the toss was not as much of a factor any more with less grass left on the pitch, but you can bet your bottom rand whoever wins the toss will bat first this afternoon.

England are set to bring in Broad at the expense of Sajid Mahmood, but Graeme Swann’s return is less certain.

As for South Africa, they are looking to pep up their bowling attack, with left-armer Wayne Parnell and Morne Morkel pushing for places, the Daily express reports.

England skipper Andrew Strauss said even he has been pleasantly surprised with the way his team has started the tour despite having two of their star players, Kevin Pietersen and Stuart Broad, hampered by injury.

"We have a really good bunch of players here and guys that have a lot of room to get better," he said.