Doubt whether Smith will play
2007-04-23 18:44
Gros Islet - South Africa
skipper Graeme Smith was concerned over his slow recovery from a
knee injury ahead of Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against
Australia.
Smith batted in the nets on Monday and did light exercises
under the supervision of team physiotherapist Shane Jabbar
before applying an ice pack to the problem area.
"It hasn't healed as quickly as I was hoping but I'm still
pretty confident of getting on to the field on Wednesday," he
told a news conference on Wednesday.
Smith suffered the injury on his left knee while taking a
catch to dismiss Kevin Pietersen in the nine-wicket Super Eights
win over England last Tuesday.
"I had a full bat today and a little bit of rehab," he
added.
Smith's full fitness would be vital for South Africa as they
bid to reach the Cup final for the first time by overcoming
holders Australia, who are the only unbeaten side left in the
tournament.
The seven-week tournament culminates with the final in
Barbados on Saturday.
- Reuters