'Big thank you' - Graeme Smith thanks BCCI and team India for touring South Africa in uncertain times

The director of Cricket South Africa, Graeme Smith is delighted that the series between India and South Africa ended on a good note without any interventions despite the surge in Omicron cases in the African nation. A lot of doubts had popped over the series getting underway at the scheduled time and the Tests had to be postponed by a week to ensure the arrangements were made accordingly.

However, despite the series taking place in various venues behind closed doors, there was no signs of any player complaining and this will initiate a lot of other nations to tour the country without hesitations. India started the tour with a win in Centurioun but it turned out to be their only win of the tour.

The hosts won the next two Test matches to pocket the series. The ODI series was no different as South Africa showed that they are no more in the rebuilding phase and are up for the challenge.

Your commitment at an uncertain time has set the example – Graeme Smith

Meanwhile, Graeme Smith thanked the BCCI and the Indian management for having the faith in CSA (Cricket South Africa) board in conducting the series safely and securely during the tough pandemic times. The former South African captain added that India has set an example for other nations in instilling belief on the boards and expects a lot more tours to be conducted in the same way.

Australia had cancelled their tour to South Africa last year at the last minute due to the surge in cases and they could not end up in the World Test Championship finals as a result.

“Big thank you @BCCI@JayShah@SGanguly99 and the Indian players and management for the faith you showed in SA cricket’s ability to pull off a safe and successful tour. Your commitment at an uncertain time has set the example that a lot can follow.” Smith tweeted.

India have had an eye opener in the tour of South Africa and the road is going to be tougher from here on with the tight schedule coming up. Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to be back from their injuries for the West Indies series which is going to be very important for India.