Versatility the key for Smith

Graeme Smith © Getty Images

South Africa captain Graeme Smith believes his side’s increased flexibility should hold the world number ones in good stead for a crack at the World Cup title.

Conditions are expected to favour the sub-continental countries and hosts West Indies while Australia always adjust impressively.

The South Africans, meanwhile, have worked hard on shedding their poor away form, which has in turn seen Australia displaced as top dogs in the one-day international rankings.

“Our ability to adapt has changed,” said Smith. “We’ve played a lot in conditions at home when the ball has spun and we’ve prevailed.

“We have alot of experience of playing around the world now and in our own mind those challenges aren’t as steep as what they used to be.

“We go into this competition not knowing what kind of conditions we will face, so adapting on the day is going to be crucial. We feel if the wicket does turn we will adapt to that.

“There are a number of match-winners in every team. In the top teams there are guys who can beat you on any given day.

“The reason why we have been successful is we have created a number of match-winners within our XI which takes the field, which gives you more chance of being competitive in every game.”

Smith, 26, has spent four years putting his stamp on the side, having inherited the captaincy in the aftermath of a disastrous 2003 World Cup campaign on home soil.

Smith said: “We have built ourselves up to number one, so I would like to think I have played a pretty integral part in that with strategy, building the team and getting the blend of youth and experience to gel, and with tactical ability on the field.

“There is always a degree of chance with leadership and you have just got to hope the things you put into place pay off.”