Graeme Smith equals national record as captain

Current captain equals national record of 53 Test matches at the helm set by the late Hansie Cronje

When Graeme Smith walked out for the toss this morning at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, he became only the second South Africa to lead the nation in 53 Test matches, equalling the record set by former captain Hansie Cronje.

Although he did not win the toss, his fast bowlers Dale Steyn, Makhaya Ntini and Morne Morkel bowled with intensity and reduced hosts Bangladesh to 85/5 after 25 overs.

The southpaw took over the reins in 2003 at the age of 22 to become South Africa's youngest-ever captain following the World Cup campaign at home under Shaun Pollock.

Detractors are of the belief that the talented batsman and captain has matured as a cricketer and leader over the past few years and has a great road ahead of him. After the conclusion of the Bangladesh tour, South Africa will travel to India for a three-Test series before they head off to England and wind up the year with a taxing tour of Australia during the summer Down Under.

"It is a great honour and a dream to be the leading Test captain. I was fortunate that I was given an opportunity to lead the side at such a young age. Initially I was trying to prove I was good enough and strong enough to handle the job but now I am much more relaxed," he said. ” Smith was quoted as saying before the start of the first Test match against Bangladesh.