Smith out of Champions Trophy

Graeme Smith, the former South African captain, has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy as he has been suffering from a chronic ankle problem. Smith has been signed by Surrey for the County Championship and at the moment, he is likely to miss the tournament. He will return to South Africa after having scans in London.

“It’s a big blow for me personally to be missing out on the Champions Trophy next month. Our ODI squad is creating something special and I was looking forward to being part of that family”, Smith said.

Chris Adams, the managing director of Surrey has said:  “Graeme has made an impressive start as a leader and the squad have really responded to his leadership. It’s clearly disappointing for all, especially Graeme, but we wish him a speedy recovery.”

He added: “We have been trying to manage him but unfortunately the impingement syndrome slowed him down today and he is quite symptomatic. He has had surgery on this ankle a while ago and I think the load and the volume of cricket for the year, and particularly during this ODI series, has troubled him.”

Graeme Smith didn’t play the entire ODI Series against Pakistan as he had to go for a checkup on his ankle. Doctor Mohammad Moosajee had told that Smith was suffering from “chronic ankle problem”.

Ricky Ponting has been signed as Smith’s replacement for Surrey. He is expected to miss half-of the tournament as he busy on IPL duty for the Mumbai Indians.

Graeme Smith’s absence in the Champions Trophy wouldn’t cost much as South Africa have quality players in the dressing room. They have to find the perfect opening combination. They can’t afford to ask AB de Villers to open as his wicket will be crucial in the later part of the innings. By hook or crook, they will have to find right combination for the Champions Trophy. South Africa begin their Champions Trophy campaign against India.