Smith recovering quicker than expected

Graeme Smith, the South Africa captain, is expected to be fit for the return series against Australia, which starts on February 26. While the fracture Smith sustained in his left hand during the third Test in Sydney has healed, he has also put off surgery on his tennis elbow - in his right hand - until after the series.

"He is fine," Arthur told the Sydney Morning Herald. "He has had his second injection [in the elbow], which is a good thing. The fracture in his hand has mended perfectly, and we are hoping he will be having a hit in about two weeks. It is even better than expected."

Smith said he would be available for selection for the Cape Cobras for next weekend's Standard Bank Pro20 semi-finals, should they qualify for the knock-out stage. "The medical team have given me the go ahead to resume playing," said Smith. "They are very happy with my hand injury and they feel they can manage my elbow through the home series against Australia. I will get back into the nets next week and hopefully the Cobras will make it through to the last four."

Smith had managed to play on during the Tests in Australia by getting the tear in his elbow injected with his blood. He was already slated to fly home after the three-Test contest when he suffered a broken knuckle off a Mitchell Johnson delivery during his first innings in Sydney. Smith did not open in the second innings of the Test, but bravely walked out at No. 11 as South Africa - who had already sealed the series 2-0 - tried to save the game, which he nearly did with Makhaya Ntini.

"It still remains to be seen once he [Smith] starts playing but the good thing is that the fracture has mended perfectly," said Arthur. "It is really excellent to have him fit. We weren't sure how it was all going to come through but at this stage, touch wood, it all seems to be very good."

Australia, who are in danger of losing their No. 1 spot in the ICC Test rankings, have named their 14-man squad for the three Tests, and have included three uncapped players in Phillip Hughes, Bryce McGain and Marcus North.