Sports

Graeme Smith called up to help South Africa

Former Proteas captain has joins the team as an adviser ahead of the second Test against England

Afp January 02, 2016

PHOTO: REUTERS

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA: Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith has linked up with the South African team as an adviser ahead of the second Test against England which starts at Newlands on Saturday.

"Graeme was a wonderful cricketer for South Africa and a wonderful captain," said current captain Hashim Amla. Smith will be with the team for the rest of the four-match series.

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Amla said Smith's experience could be important for South Africa's batsmen, who have managed just three totals of more than 200 in their most recent 10 completed innings.

South Africa will make at least two changes following a crushing 241-run defeat in the first Test in Durban.

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Amla announced that Kagiso Rabada will replace the injured Dale Steyn. He also dropped a strong hint that Quinton de Kock would come in as a wicketkeeper and batsman, with AB de Villiers relinquishing the gloves and playing as a specialist batsman.

COMMENTS (1)

Ayesha Mir | 8 years ago | Reply Nowadays it is heard that Graeme Smith will be with his team for the rest of the matches against England. It is not a bad decision at all as he is an experienced player and can help South Africa. South Africa has struggled against England in the first test and they need an experienced player like Smith who has an excellent career to guide them. Even Smith can take his retirement back and play for South Africa for another 3-4 years. South Africa needs a player like him. Some days back Smith quoted himself that

I'm at the cusp of whether I should play international cricket again or not. I'm 34 now. I retired at 33. I can -play for another three or four years.I know I can.

He said this when Proteas struggled against India. And seeing them again struggling against England, he will be there to guide South Africa for the rest of the matches which is a great sign for proteas. It will be really great seeing him with his team once again. Hope South Africa regains their lost form with the return of their ex-captain.

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