South Africa and West Indies came into the ICC Champions Trophy as the least fancied of the established sides but one will progress to the semi-finals after their decisive Group B clash at the Oval on Saturday.

The weather may play a part, with England's effective quarter-final against Sri Lanka heading for a second day on Saturday after rain meant only 32 overs were bowled at the Rose Bowl as England reached 118 for three.

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South Africa recently suffered a 5-0 drubbing in Sri Lanka while West Indies cricket is at a low ebb., but the tournament's format means the winners face a semi-final against India or Pakistan.

Both teams demolished outsiders Bangladesh in their opening group games but know the Oval will provide a tougher test.

"South Africa haven't been in the best of form but with the players they have got they will be quick to bounce back," West Indies vice-captain Ramnaresh Sarwan said.

Mervyn Dillon excelled in the 138-run win over Bangladesh at the Rose Bowl, taking a career-best five for 29, and opener Chris Gayle smashed 99.

South Africa captain Graeme Smith has acknowledged his side has something to prove after losing 10 successive one-dayers before hammering Bangladesh by nine wickets.

"We have been in a hole and it is up to ourselves to get out of it," he said. "This tournament is important to see what steps we have taken."

Alan Dawson is expected to replace seamer Charl Langeveldt in the South African line-up.