Durban: South Africa have appointed Jonty Rhodes as ODI fielding coach to help in their preparations for the 2007 World Cup.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive Gerald Majola said Rhodes’ inclusion in the team management was part of a larger strategic plan targetting the quadrennial event in the West Indies next March-April.

“The strategic plan is aimed at leaving no stone unturned in order to give the Proteas the very best preparation available,” Majola said.

“We will be using all the expertise at our disposal. For instance, we have added Rhodes to the Proteas management team as an ODI specialist from now until after the World Cup.”

Rhodes will work in tandem with convenor of selectors Haroon Lorgat, national coach Mickey Arthur, captain Graeme Smith, professional cricket general manager Vince van der Bijl and Majola.

The announcement means Rhodes, who is due to assist the Pakistan squad for two weeks before their tour of England, will return home for a long-term association.

Majola also announced a 25-man training squad.