Jacques has been in excellent form in domestic cricket

Australia have called up opener Phil Jacques to their one-day squad to face South Africa after captain Ricky Ponting pulled out because of injury.

Ponting, who suffered an abdominal strain during practice, has already missed the first one-day game and could still be out for the second.

"There's no doubt Phil's form has been great this summer," said chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns.

"We've every confidence in him if his services are called upon."

Australia have suffered a string of injuries and had to take the field in Centurion with the only 11 fit players left in their squad.

They were a batsman light with the all-rounder Shane Watson coming in at six, followed by five specialist bowlers.

Wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist again took over as captain.

Also on the treatment table are all-rounder Andrew Symonds (strained hip) and seam bowler Stuart Clark (rib).

Ponting is one of three Australia players on the injury list

Ponting's scans suggest the strain is only "low-grade", but physio Errol Alcott was not overly optimistic.

"It is a painful condition which affects all his movement," said Alcott.

"Ricky will undergo intensive treatment and will be reassessed late next week."

Jacques has been in prolific form in domestic cricket in Australia, and hit 94 on his international one-day debut last month.

"As we're two batsmen down for the time being, due to the injuries to Ricky and Andrew, the selectors feel it is essential to fly Phil in as cover," added Hohns.