JOHANNESBURG (South Africa) - There were no surprise inclusions in the South Africa side for the World Cup when it was named by Peter Pollock at the United Cricket Board headquarters at the Wanderers today.

Pollock, who retires from the selection panel, admitted it had been the easiest side to select with Makhaya Ntini making a late claim in the final rounds of the domestic Standard Bank Cup through several quality bowling displays on slow Eastern Cape pitches.

The only place open to doubt had been that of the extra spinner with Derek Crookes earning the selectors' vote ahead of Shafiek Abrahams while Alan Dawson, most likely included in the reserve panel of five, also missing the final cut.

Pollock said they had been pleased with the form of the side in New Zealand although most had got it wrong when it was suggested the New Zealand tour had been ideal preparation.

The conditions in England and New Zealand are totally different, he said. The squad, with the exception of Allan Donald, meet in Cape Town on April 24 to prepare for the five week tournament which opens on May 14. Donald has left for England where is to rest and have treatment for his stomach muscle problem.

The squad is:

Hansie Cronje (capt), Shaun Pollock (vice-captain), Dale Benkenstein, Nicky Boje, Mark Boucher, Derek Crookes, Daryll Cullinan, Allan Donald, Steve Elworthy, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Gary Kirsten, Lance Klusener, Makhaya Ntini, Jonty Rhodes.