Shaun Pollock tries out rugby in Auckland on Monday

Auckland: The South African team arrived in New Zealand on Monday looking for batsman-friendly conditions in the six-match one-day series. However, captain Graeme Smith announced he has no problems if the wickets are being prepared to suit the home team.

The Proteas begin with a warm-up match against Northern Districts in Hamilton on Wednesday and play the first ODI against the Black Caps in Auckland on Friday. A three-Test series follows next month.

The South Africans are fresh from a home Test and one-day series win over the West Indies. “We are starting afresh,” he said.

“Hopefully they will prepare the best wickets possible for one-day cricket,” Smith said, adding he had no problems with the home side getting favourable conditions.