For those considering the 1st ODI between England & South Africa, this preview would suggest it's likely the two sides will be fairly equally matched, although England's poor form against the Kiwis should mean South Africa will be viewed as slight favourites in the ODI cricket. If England are to claim a series-opening win, much will depend on the form of big-hitters like Pietersen, Ian Bell and Owais Shah, who top scored in the final two games against New Zealand in June, while Andrew Flintoff's return should also mean. South Africa were last in one-day international action in March when they managed a convincing 3-0 victory over Bangladesh but England should provide a much sterner test.