Smith back in full training

Profiles / Editor / 23 April 2007 / Leave a Comment

South Africa captain Graeme Smith has returned to full training after the knee injury he suffered against England and will play against Australia on Wednesday.

Smith picked up the problem in the field although it did not prevent him from pummeling England's attack as the Proteas chased down the paltry target of 155 for the loss of just one wicket.

The big-hitting left-hander has been able to rest as that was South Africa's final Super 8 clash and he has recovered sufficiently to join the rest of the squad at full practice.

Smith, who has amassed 441 runs so far in his nine innings at the World Cup including a rapid 74 against the Aussies in their group clash, will now spearhead the side, looking to avenge that 83-run defeat in St Kitts.

Smith and his opening partner, AB de Villiers, racked up 160 for the first wicket when chasing Australia's massive total of 377 in St Kitts and may attract some interest in the emerging 'Australia v South Africa Opening Partnership' market. For the record, Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden had put on 106 for the Green and Golds.

Wicketkeeper Mark Boucher insists that result last month will have no bearing on Wednesday's semi-final clash and is hoping the side continues the form they showed in crushing England last week to confirm their place in the last four.

He told Sky Sports News: "What's happened before is now all over. It gets to a semi-final, it's whoever plays better on the day.

"Hopefully we can play it to the same sort of standard that we played against England and stay nice and calm as well. If we can do that then it is all poised for a very good game of cricket."

Australia though, who have regained their number one ranking following their imperious performances in the tournament, remain the strong favourites at 1.42, with South Africa on offer at 3.35.