South Africa captain Graeme Smith has been withdrawn from the Cape Cobras squad for Airtel Champions League T20.

Smith has been withdrawn from the Cape Cobras squad to ensure his fitness ahead of England's tour later this year.

Smith has undergone an operation

The left-hander suffered cramp while batting in South Africa's 22-run defeat to England in the Champions Trophy on Sunday, a result which knocked the hosts out of the tournament.

The injury created headlines after England skipper Andrew Strauss denied Smith a runner before he was finally dismissed for 141 in a losing cause.

Smith was due to join the Cobras for the inaugural Champions League Twenty20 next month, but Cricket South Africa today decided to withdraw him on medical advice.

"After much discussion and deliberation, the Proteas' management together with the medical committee of Cricket South Africa headed by Dr Shuaib Manjra have made a decision to withdraw Graeme from the upcoming Champions League in India," national team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said.

"This decision is based on Graeme's current upper limb dysfunction."

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Smith underwent an operation on a troublesome elbow in June and with England's 10-week tour of South Africa is due to begin at the start of November team physiotherapist Brandon Jackson said the skipper would rest for between four and six weeks.

"We need to work on strengthening his muscles around the shoulder area and continue his post-operation rehab," Jackson said.

"The elbow operation was 100% successful and I am confident that he will be ready for action by the start of the England series in November."

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Smith admitted he was disappointed he would not play in the Champions League, where the Cobras and Eagles will represent South Africa.

"It is very important for South African cricket that the two franchises representing us in India should do well," he said.

"And, like all the national players, I enjoy playing franchise cricket whenever national circumstances permit."

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