Smith back in action, fit for Pakistan Tests

South Africa Test captain Graeme Smith has made a successful return to the middle, having turned out for the Cobras in a practice match at Newlands against Indian side Madhya Pradesh.

South Africa Test captain Graeme Smith has made a successful return to the middle, having turned out for the Cobras in a practice match at Newlands against Indian side Madhya Pradesh.

Smith was out of action for 21 weeks, after a persistent ankle problem finally required surgery while he was playing for Surrey. He was off his feet, needing crutches, for eight weeks, before resuming training in Cape Town.

It wasn't the most auspicious return with the bat for the skipper ahead of the tour to the UAE to face Pakistan, which departs on Friday, but he fielded in his regular position in the slips without a problem.

Cobras coach Paul Adams told Cricinfo: "He has been working really hard with us in the nets. And he has made good progress. He looks ready to go."

Proteas team manager Dr Mohammad Moosajee agreed, saying: "As things stands now, Graeme is on track to play. We are happy with the progress he has made so far.

"We have approached every week with a plan in place to get him to ready for the series. Ideally you always want more time, but he has worked well. We have been careful to monitor him at every step, so we don't overload him."

The first Test in the UAE starts on 14 October.

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