Liam Plunkett has been called up to the England squad as bowling cover for the first two one-day internationals against South Africa as the injuries mount for Andrew Strauss’ men.

The five-match series gets underway in Johannesburg on Friday and the Proteas are 2/5 in the match betting, with the tourists available at 7/4.

England have been hit by a number of injuries in the build-up to the start of the ODI series, with James Anderson (knee), Stuart Broad (shoulder), Paul Collingwood and Alastair Cook (both back) and Graeme Swann (intercostal muscle) all in a race to be fit.

All five players were forced to sit out of the final warm-up match against South Africa A on Tuesday, although coach Andy Flower has played down fears over their potential absences.

“We reckon they aren’t going to be medium-term injuries. We’re hopeful they’ll clear up by Friday,” Flower said.

However, Durham seamer Plunkett has been drafted in as bowling cover for the opening two one-dayers, with the second taking place on Sunday in Centurion.

The 24-year-old is currently with the performance squad and was due to join up with the England Test squad in December, but will now be available for duty earlier than expected – if required.

Plunkett has played nine Tests and 27 one-day internationals for his country, although the last of those was in July 2007.

South Africa are 3/8 favourites to make home advantage count and win the series, with England on offer at 15/8.