Proteas batsman Graeme Smith will miss the ICC Champions Trophy in England and Wales next month due to an injury to his left ankle.
Smith will return to South Africa on Thursday for further consultation, after scans on Wednesday in London revealed a stress fracture to his troublesome left ankle.
“Graeme has been troubled by left ankle pain over the last few months and despite extensive treatment and physiotherapy, it has recently deteriorated significantly while playing for Surrey in England,” said Proteas team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said.
“He underwent a rescan of his left ankle in London on Wednesday, and it was determined that since his last scan, the condition has progressed to a stress fracture.
“Surgery will be required, and he has been advised to follow a rest and rehabilitation programme over the next four to six months.
“This unfortunately rules him out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in England and Wales and the selectors will name a replacement in due course.”
“It’s a big blow for me personally to be missing out on the Champions Trophy next month,” said Smith.
“The ODI squad is creating something special and I was looking forward to being part of that family.
“I will no doubt be supporting from my living room and I know the players, under AB’s leadership, will be giving all that they can during the tournament.”
