Smith determined to take top spot
July 08, 2012 10:08:52 UK
South Africa captain Graeme Smith has his sights set on the world number one ranking as he prepares to lead his side in a three-Test series in England.
The Proteas can move above their hosts with a win in England and Smith is bullish about his side's prospects, with South Africa 1.28 to win the series, while England are 81.00.
Having had success here in 2008, we are hoping to build on that and taste that again.
Graeme Smith
He told reporters: "We hope getting to number one can be a reward for our consistency. We've been top two and top three for a long time now and are now very close to the pinnacle.
"We come here with a degree of quiet confidence. We have performed well away from home for a period of time now.
"We have that strength within the squad and strength in confidence to know we can perform well away from home.
"Having had success here in 2008, we are hoping to build on that and taste that again."
South Africa won a four-Test series 2-1 in England four years ago, with their victory in the third Test at Edgbaston bringing about the resignation of Michael Vaughan as England captain.
Don't forget all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on your mobile phone with the new and improved Mobile at bet365.
View all Cricket betting