Dhaka: South Africa's coach Eric Simons said Saturday he had full confidence in the abilities of new captain Graeme Smith and hoped his team would once again become a force to reckon with.

"Smith is one of those few cricketers who have the real feel for the game," said Simons. "He is a tactical person and his leadership abilities have been tested for South Africa 'A' and Western Province."

Simons cautioned that Smith will take time to adjust to his new role. "Smith will adjust at the helm and also bring out the best in his players, but it may take time. His is not going to be an easy job but we have full confidence in him," said Simons.

Smith will be 22 years and 71 days old when he leads his young side against a new- look Indian team, breaking the previous South African record of 24 years and 105 days held by the late Hansie Cronje.

India is without star batsmen Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid, frontline pacemen Javagal Srinath and Ashish Nehra, and also experienced leg spinner Anil Kumble.

Simons said Smith would have to be on his toes as India, which finished runners-up to Australia in the World Cup, are always a dangerous side. "The pressure may not be much because this is a low-profile tournament. But we are here to win and India can never be taken lightly, with or without Tendulkar," he said.

The coach said it was now up to Smith to justify the trust in him and for the younger players to make the most of their opportunities. "Guys like Andrew Hall and Charl Willoughby have a good chance of showing their talent here," said Simons, adding it was time for the team to look ahead after their World Cup debacle

"In the World Cup, the pressure got on to us. Our top players, including Kallis, did not strike. It was a major disappointment as hosts," said Simons. South Africa plays its first match after the World Cup on Sunday while India has already begun with an impressive 200-run drubbing of hosts Bangladesh in the opening match on Friday.

The tournament is being played on a double-league format with the top two teams clashing in the final on April 20. South Africa then plays the first of two Tests starting on April 24. The second Test will be held at the eastern port city of Chittagong from May 1.

Copyright AFP 2001

Extras:
We are determined to do well, says Simons
Smith set to become 2nd-youngest ODI captain