Smith released from ODI squad to focus on Tests

Durban: Opener and former captain Graeme Smith was today released from the South African ODI squad, which is currently playing a three-match series against India, to "focus" on his preparations for the Test series against the same side starting December 18.

Smith, who has not scored an ODI half-century in eight innings, was not included in the playing XI in the opening match of the ongoing series which South Africa won by 141 runs in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

"Castle Lager Proteas' opening batsman, Graeme Smith, has returned to Cape Town to focus on his test match preparation ahead of the two-match Sunfoil Series against India starting in Johannesburg on December 18," Cricket South Africa said in a statement.

"Smith is still part of the squad, and will re-join the squad if there is an injury."

Among other developments in the team, CSA stated that all-rounder Vernon Philander has recuperated from a shoulder injury to be fit for the second ODI tomorrow.

"Vernon Philander has recovered from his shoulder blade strain and is available for selection for the second Momentum ODI at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead on Sunday but Imran Tahir remains a 50/50 call," the CSA stated.