Friday 19 February 2016 14:19, UK
Captain Faf du Plessis says South Africa plan to keep AB de Villiers towards the top of a powerful batting order for their Twenty20 matches with England on Friday and Sunday.
However, de Villiers may have a new opening partner in the form of Quinton de Kock, who was outstanding in the recent 3-2 ODI series win over England.
Hashim Amla opened with De Villiers in India four months ago but he could drop down the order, or be left out altogether.
Du Plessis himself will bat at number three in the first match at Newlands on Friday, as the Proteas fine-tune their line-up ahead of next month's World Twenty20.
"AB has been batting up the top for the last three series, and I don't see that changing," said Du Plessis.
"He's an x-factor player, and it's definitely something we see as a wild card for the World Cup.
"He's one of those players who can take a game away every day, and it's something we're optimistic about at this World Cup."
However, key fast bowler Dale Styen will not play in either of the matches against England, although he has returned to fitness and bowled at practice on Thursday.
"Dale looks fit," said Du Plessis.
"But we said we'd bring him into the mix for the games against Australia, just to give him some extra time to get back."
South Africa have seven matches in all, including two warm-ups in India, before they begin their World Twenty20 campaign against England on March 18.
"I see these games just about giving most of the guys game time," said Du Plessis.
"You can't always guarantee everyone to play. It's just about trying to get the guys ready and feeling good before that first match starts in the World Cup.
"It's not always about the best thing for now, it's about looking ahead."
Watch the first Twenty20 international between South Africa and England live on Sky Sports 2 this Friday from 3.30pm. Or watch for £6.99 without a contract, on NOW TV.
Before then, do not miss South Africa Women take on England Women in their second T20 from 11.25am on Friday, also on Sky Sports 2.
