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Graeme Smith

Graeme Smith

South Africa, Gauteng, Western Province, Cape Cobras, Hampshire, Rajasthan Royals, Pune Warriors, Surrey

Matches

347

Runs

17236

Centuries

37

Fans

Millions

Biography

Graeme Smith is a legendary South African cricketer and one of the most successful Test captains in the game's history. Born on February 1, 1981, in Johannesburg, he became South Africa’s youngest-ever captain at just 22. Smith led the Proteas in 109 Test matches, winning 53 — a world record. A gritty left-handed opener, he was known for his toughness, especially batting through injuries. Under his leadership, South Africa rose to the top of world rankings. After retirement, he took on key administrative roles, including Director of Cricket for Cricket South Africa.

Career Highlights

03
2003

Double Tons in England

Scored 277 and 259 in back-to-back Tests vs England at just 22 years old.

08
2008

No.1 Test Team

Led South Africa to the top of ICC Test rankings after winning in Australia.

09
2009

Batting with Broken Hand

Bravely batted at No.11 with a broken hand vs Australia at Sydney.

10
2010

Most Test Wins as Captain

Became the most successful Test captain with 53 wins in 109 matches.

14
2014

Retirement After 12-Year Career

Retired with over 17,000 runs and unmatched captaincy legacy.

Gallery

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Hashim Amla gallery image 1

Graeme Smith smashing his way to a double century in England.

Hashim Amla gallery image 2

The Proteas captain celebrating a series win in Australia.

Hashim Amla gallery image 3

Smith walking in to bat with bandaged hand in Sydney – a moment of grit.

Hashim Amla gallery image 4

A captain’s embrace: Smith rallying his team after a big win.

Hashim Amla gallery image 5

Mid-action shot showing his powerful off-side play.

Hashim Amla gallery image 6

Waving goodbye: Smith’s emotional farewell to international cricket.

Personal Information

Full NameGraeme Craig Smith
BornJanuary 31, 1981
BirthplaceJohannesburg, Transvaal Province, South Africa
TeamsSouth Africa, Gauteng, Western Province, Cape Cobras, Hampshire, Rajasthan Royals, Pune Warriors, Surrey
NicknameBiff

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Major Achievements

Youngest South African Test Captain
Most Successful Test Captain in History
Led South Africa to No. 1 Test Ranking
Scored Back-to-Back Double Centuries in England (2003)
Resilient Performance with Broken Hand (2009)

Latest News

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Career Statistics

Test Cricket

Matches

117

Runs

9265

Average

48.25

High Score

277

Centuries

27

Fifties

38

One Day Internationals

Matches

197

Runs

6989

Average

37.98

High Score

141

Centuries

10

Fifties

47

T20 Internationals

Matches

33

Runs

982

Average

31.67

High Score

68

Centuries

0

Fifties

5

What Others Say

"Smith’s leadership redefined South African cricket."

Gary Kirsten

Gary Kirsten

Former SA Coach

"He was tough, fearless, and carried the team through many battles."

Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting

Former AUS Captain

"Playing under Smith gave you belief—he was a captain in every sense."

Jacques Kallis

Jacques Kallis

South Africa All-rounder

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