London, June 25: South Africa captain Graeme Smith said his new-look side owed their fans an improved performance during the one-day triangular series in England which starts tomorrow. Hosts South Africa failed to make it into the knockout stages of the world cup earlier this year, one of the shock outcomes of the tournament. "When we went out so early the country took it badly", Smith admitted yesterday ahead of the series where Zimbabwe also feature. "We realise we owe the South African public something big", added Smith, 22, who only came into the Proteas' world cup squad after an injury to Jonty Rhodes. Following the world cup debacle left-hand batsman Smith lept from stand-in to skipper, replacing all-rounder Shaun Pollock.
But while Pollock remains a key member of the side, other stars have departed the scene.

Fielding maestro Rhodes, now playing for English county Gloucestershire, and fast bowler Allan Donald have both retired from international cricket.

Controversially, Lance Klusener, 31, was left out of the squads for both the triangular tournament and the subsequent five test series in England, even though the all-rounder was available.

Much will depend on the performances of Pollock and new- ball partner Makhaya Ntini.

Bureau Report