Smith doubtful for third Test

8:26am Wednesday 30th July 2008

South African skipper Graeme Smith could be a doubt for the third npower Test with England at Edgbaston after revealing he is suffering with a back problem.

Smith sustained the setback during the Proteas three-day game with Bangladesh A at New Road which ended on Sunday and he was unable to train on Monday although South African coach Micky Arthur said everyone available for the game in Birmingham was "100% fit".

"I've had a bit of a back problem. I picked it up during the game at Worcester and it has been niggling me a bit," Smith said. "I don't know if I got it when batting during the first innings at New Road but it was just something I felt one morning when I woke up."

He added: "I'm in a bit of pain at the moment and it is just about making sure that I am ready for Wednesday.

"I don't want to do anything on Tuesday that will effect Wednesday. I'm taking treatment.

"I'm improving every day so Wednesday morning I see myself coming down to the ground early and putting in the work I need to do.

"Am I 100 per cent to play? I would like to think so."

The Proteas could ill-afford to be without Smith who is a proven player in English conditions and has led his side in positive fashion during the current series.

With leading bowler Dale Steyn already side-lined with a broken thumb, the absence of Smith would further enhance England's chances of levelling the series.