Smith promises improved South African display

Graeme Smith, the South African captain, has pledged to put South African cricket back on track following a disappointing World Cup campaign. Prior to the team's departure to England for the triangular NatWest Series, Smith was quoted in the Beeld newspaper as saying: "The entire group realises the importance of this tour -- to excel as individuals, but also to form a united front.

"A negative image has been created in the wake of our failure in the World Cup, and as a result of recent events highlighted in the media. Many of our supporters have lost confidence in us. That's why we've got to accept responsibility for the current situation, and do everything in our power to restore the pride and passion that were once trademarks of South African cricket.

"In sport, there are many variables that have a bearing on results, but there are also many aspects that can be controlled, and we cannot afford to fail in that respect. As a young team, we're very aware of the enormous challenges we face and that we are not the favourites in either of the two series. However, we accept the challenge with the pride and passion that our supporters expect of us. It was not so long ago that we were supporters ourselves, encouraging the players from the stands."

Promising the South African fans total commitment and integrity, Smith said: "We can give the assurance that we share the joy of every victory and the disappointment of every defeat. We are the selected group that has the honour of representing our country on the cricket field, and we acknowledge the responsibility that we carry in that respect.

"We are the torch-bearers for SA cricket ... each of us is determined to hand over the torch while it's still burning brightly. Our message to the entire country is that we realise we're not perfect, and that we disappoint ourselves and our supporters from time to time. Still, we represent our country and we'll give it our all, on and off the playing field."

The South African one-day squad arrived in Dublin on Monday, without Jacques Kallis and Nicky Boje. Kallis stayed back due to a bereavement in the family, while Boje remained at home for the birth of his first child. Both are expected to join the squad in England on Saturday.