Skip to content

Smith back for Proteas

Image: Smith: Back for ODI series

Graeme Smith is expected to return from a broken hand to lead South Africa in the one-day series against Australia.

Latest Cricket Stories

Paceman Morkel included in 14-man squad for first two matches

Graeme Smith is expected to return from a broken hand to lead South Africa in the one-day series against Australia. The opening batsman has been included in a 14-man squad for the first two matches, at Kingsmead on Friday April 3 and then in Centurion two days later. Smith suffered a broken finger on his right hand when he was struck by a delivery from Mitchell Johnson in the second Test. He missed the final Test, which the Proteas won by an innings and 20 runs on Sunday, although the tourists won the series 2-1.

Morkel back

As well as welcoming back their skipper, South Africa's selectors have also quickly recalled Morne Morkel to the international fold. The fast bowler was left out of the squad for the third Test in Cape Town after struggling to control his line and length. Batsman Neil McKenzie has been left out of the squad along with Lonwabo Tsotsobe, who is recovering from knee surgery. Before the start of the one-day series the two sides meet in two Twenty20 Internationals, the first of which takes place in Johannesburg on Friday. "It is possible that we will add other players to the squad depending on performances in the two Pro20 matches this weekend," selection convenor Mike Procter said in a statement. South Africa defeated Australia 4-1 in the corresponding ODI series Down Under, despite being without the services of Smith. The left-hander had to miss out having had his left hand broken by Johnson in the third Test in Sydney. Johan Botha took charge in his absence. South Africa Squad: Graeme Smith, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Albie Morkel, Mark Boucher, Morne Morkel, Johan Botha, Dale Steyn, Makhaya Ntini, Hashim Amla, Vaughn van Jaarsveld, Wayne Parnell.

Around Sky