Smith eyes top spot

Ex Supersport

Graeme Smith warned England on Wednesday his South Africa team were determined to take the hosts' No 1 ranking in test cricket away from them. (You tell the poms Smitty!!)

If the Proteas win the upcoming three-match series, they will replace England at the summit of the International Cricket Council's standings.

South Africa captain Smith, speaking on the eve of the first test, which starts at the Oval on Thursday, said his side's strong away record made them genuine contenders.

"We've been really consistent," said Smith.

"Maybe we haven't got some of the victories we would have liked but away from home our record speaks for itself. In all conditions I think it's fair to say that we've been the most consistent team over a period of time.

"We're looking forward to getting hold of that ranking and performing well. This test series offers us an opportunity."

England captain Andrew Strauss acknowledged the home team faced "a very strong challenge".(Two saffers talking sense as can be expected)

He said: "South Africa are a very fine side. They've proved that over the last couple of years and they'll be determined to knock us off our perch.

"It will be a good gauge for us. The rankings say we are No 1 and we have to go out and prove it."

Let the games begin!!! 

 Typical Greame never scared to make a scene :) Well let's hope he isn't just saying it and that they are going to have the goods as well.

As Dale Steyn said "We are the Nr 1 Team"

Steyn does have that funny way of saying things but lets hope he can back it up as well.

Its all good marketing you need a bit of groote brag stuff to get the vibe going.

Indeed EK lets hope they do back it up. Pretty underdone are the Proteas and now Boucher also gone.

 I think our prep fro the tour is a bit lacking. I won't say we are unprepared, just saying we are not in the Shape england is n to be honest. The only thing that will make us get into shape is attitude, unfortunately Bouch is not there so we need Greame and some other guys o stand up and fight. Only way we will win. We have the talent, but we are not as prepared as England are. They are coming off a series win against West indies and Australia.