HARARE (Reuters) – South Africa have arrived in Zimbabwe for a Test tour overshadowed by political violence. South African captain Shaun Pollock was asked at the airport if he was worried about the safety of his team. "Well, we will just have to see, won't we," he told Reuters. The team was taken to a city hotel to receive a security briefing from Zimbabwean cricket officials given to all teams that visit the country.

The South Africans were scheduled to have a net later, at which opening batsman Gary Kirsten was to practise for the first time for two weeks after suffering a stiff neck.

The first Test starts at Harare on Friday and if Kirsten – South Africa's only injury worry – is not passed fit, HD Ackerman will win his fifth Test cap. If Kirsten makes it, Ackerman will return home.

The second and final Test is at Bulawayo (September 14-18), and will be followed by three one-day internationals.

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