South Africa are confident uncapped leg-spinner Imran Tahir can make a big impact at the World Cup.
South Africa talk up leg-spinner
South Africa believe they have a secret World Cup ace up their sleeve in the shape of leg-spinner Imran Tahir.
Tahir was born in Lahore and has represented Pakistan at A team level before switching allegiance following his marriage to a South African.
He has been included in the 15-man Proteas' World Cup squad despite being yet to make his ODI debut.
"We think he's a unique talent," said chief selector Andrew Hudson.
"And it's not a worry that Tahir has not played an ODI yet. We know exactly what he offers us."
Tahir has enjoyed plenty of success at domestic level in both South Africa and England during recent years.
Under wraps
Shortly after becoming eligible, he was included by South Africa in their one-day squad for the series against India in January.
But the 31-year-old was not used during the five matches, a decision skipper Graeme Smith revealed was "tactical".
"He's someone we want to keep fresh and not allow people the opportunity to see too much," he explained.
The World Cup takes place in Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka from February 19 to April 2.
South Africa are drawn in Group B alongside Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Netherlands and West Indies.
They open their campaign against West Indies in Delhi on February 24.
