HYDERABAD (India), Nov 14: Graeme Smith’s South Africa warmed up for the five-match limited-overs series against India with an eight-wicket romp in a practice match on Monday. Rookie spinner Johan Botha claimed 3-54 and fast bowler Andre Nel chipped in with 2-14 as the tourists skittled out Hyderabad X1 for 127 and then surpassed the modest target in the 26th over.

Smith led from the front with a blistering 44 off 45 balls including one six and six boundaries while Abraham de Villiers made 55.

The first one-dayer against India will be played at the Rajiv Gandhi stadium on Wednesday, followed by day-night games in Bangalore (Nov 19), Chennai (Nov 22), Kolkata (Nov 25) and Mumbai (Nov 28).

South Africa have been unbeaten for 19 matches that include two no-results due to bad weather and a tied game.

Summarised scores:

Hyderabad XI 127 in 42 overs (Daniel Manohar 20, Arjun Yadav 21; Johan Botha 3-54, Andre Nel 2-14)

South Africa 132 for 2 in 25.5 overs (Graeme Smith 44, Abraham de Villiers 55).—AFP