Graeme Smith rated 50-50 to make NZ Test

Graeme Smith needs to test out his finger before a decision is made on his fitness © Getty Images

Graeme Smith is rated as 50-50 to make the opening Test against New Zealand, at Centurion Park, as he recovers from his finger injury. A final decision will be taken after he bats in the nets on Thursday.

Smith missed the final Test against Australia after injuring the ring finger of his left hand during fielding practice. Shane Jabaar, South Africa's physiotherapist, said: "Graeme consulted a hand specialist yesterday [Monday], and we are trying to improve functionality to his finger that has been in a splint since the injury."

South Africa's vice-captain, Jacques Kallis, is scheduled to take over the captaincy should Smith not play, as was the case in the third Test against Australia at the Wanderers.

The New Zealanders, who drew their warm-up match against the Rest of South Africa XI at Benoni, will have their first net at Centurion Park on Wednesday morning.