Former South African coach Graham Ford has said the national selectors made a big mistake by not including all-rounder Lance Klusener for the forthcoming tour of England.

"I think the selectors did well to select all those who were in the picture, but it was a mistake to leave Lance out.

"It's a myth that his batting is no longer what it used to be. In his last 26 one-day appearances, he averaged 53, the best of all South African players. The big problem was that he got limited opportunities and often had to come to the crease with only a few overs remaining," Ford said.

He also said that the selectors should have added another fast bowler in the squad.

"I would have liked to have seen someone like Nantie Hayward in the squad. The England batsmen are vulnerable against real pace. You have a better chance of rattling them with real pace, rather than swing. They face swing bowlers in county cricket every day," Ford was quoted by Top Sports, a South African sporting magazine.

Despite missing the services of Klusener, Ford said he still believes South Africa can pull off their first series win in England since 1965.

"We should murder them with our strong batting line-up. Gary Kirsten will play a leading role in helping the younger players blossom. If green tops are prepared, South Africa will have the advantage. Bowlers like Makhaya Ntini and Shaun Pollock will then play an important role."

South Africa, who will leave for England next week, will play five Test matches besides a tri-nation tournament also involving Zimbabwe.