Smith doubtful for Centurion Test

8220;Graeme consulted a hand specialist on Monday and we are trying to improve the functioning of his finger that has been in a splint since the injury,8221; Jabaar said in a statement today. South Africa8217;s first practice session of the week is scheduled for Thursday.

8220;He will bat in the nets on Thursday, and then we will have a better idea of his fitness to play in the first Test,8221; Jabaar said.

The 25-year-old suffered ligament damage and severe bruising to the ring finger of his left hand during fielding practice on March 30, the day before the final Test against Australia. If Smith is ruled out for the first of the three-Test series against New Zealand, Jacques Kallis will once more take over the captaincy.