South African cricket captain Graeme Smith allayed fears on Wednesday that he will miss the New Year Test against the West Indies, claiming after a lengthy batting spell that he would be completely recovered by Friday.
Smith missed the final two days of South Africa’s crushing innings and 65 run win over the Windies at Kingsmead after straining a hamstring while fielding in the first innings.
”I was chasing a ball to the fence but when I caught up with the ball and I stopped, I felt something pull at the back of my leg,” explained Smith.
Team physiotherapist Shane Jabaar said Smith would face a final fitness test on Thursday, adding that the 22-year-old skipper had responded well to treatment.
”I’ve had two sessions with Shane today and I batted twice in the nets for about 45 minutes so I’m sure I’ll be fine,” said Smith.
Smith failed to cash in on the run feast that was Kingsmead last weekend, making only 14 before being caught at an extremely deep gully off Fidel Edwards.
His opening partner Herschelle Gibbs, however, took full advantage of a mediocre attack and woeful fielding to hammer 142.
Jacques Kallis followed in Gibbs’ footsteps, making 177 while Gary Kirsten made 137.
If Smith is ruled out of the third Test at Newlands, Kirsten is likely to move from his current position at number five to opener. In Smith’s absence, Mark Boucher will captain the side.
”I really don’t think it will come to that. I’ll be fine by Friday,” insisted Smith.
”If I was needed at Kingsmead I would have been able to come on. It was just that they thought it better that I rest so that I would be sure to play in Cape Town.”
Barring injuries, South Africa will probably make just one change for the Test with Easterns allrounder Andrew Hall likely to make way for wrist spinner Paul Adams.
Adams returned to the squad last week after recovering from a cut to his right hand.
South Africa leads the four match series 2-0. – Sapa