South Africa captain Bjorn Fortuin said the decision was based on the dry conditions and the fact that the wicket had already been used. He felt batting first would allow his side to put runs on the board before trying to restrict Zimbabwe in the chase. Fortuin added that the team was seeking a strong collective response after its previous performance and would adapt to whatever conditions were presented.
South Africa made one change, with Nqabayomzi Peter replacing Tony de Zorzi.
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza said his team had also wanted to bowl first, having already had enough opportunities to assess how the surface behaved when batting first. He viewed the opportunity to chase as useful preparation for the team.
Raza said Zimbabwe had identified one area each in their batting and bowling that needed improvement after their previous game. He stressed the importance of learning and improving consistently as the team looks to build momentum.
Zimbabwe made two changes. Kundai Matigimu will make his international debut, coming in for Blessing Muzarabani, while Innocent Kaia replaces Dion Myers.