Smith explains Ntini axe
Jan 03 2010 - 11:07:27
South Africa captain Graeme Smith remains hopeful that veteran fast bowler Makhaya Ntini will regain top form, following a tough start to the series against England.
The 32-year-old took just two wickets in the first two Tests against Andrew Strauss' side, before being dropped for the third Test at Newlands in Cape Town.
He told reporters: "It's a sensitive issue in South Africa and that's being honest.
"Makhaya is an 'icon' through the country, not only the most iconic player of colour that we have, but also one of our most iconic cricketers in terms of performance over the last decade.
"When senior players are at the point where there are a lot of questions being asked about them it's always a terrible, tough time for any leadership group to manage.
"We've really tried to support Makhaya and give him as much as we can behind the scenes.
"He's been working hard at his game. Let's hope there's confidence left in him for the future."