Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith has formally agreed to fill Cricket South Africa’s director of cricket position for three months.

Smith agreed to the appointment in principle last week. He formally accepted the position in an acting capacity on Wednesday. Smith was unable to commit to a longer tenure due to contractual commitments as a commentator in next year’s Indian Premier League.

‘I’ve publicly stated a number of times that I would love to assist CSA in this difficult time, particularly in developing this new role of director of cricket. I’m still as passionate about South African cricket as I ever was and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the role. There is a lot of work to be done in the next few weeks and months and my objective will always be to make a positive impact during my tenure,’ said Smith.

Smith interviewed for the post last month, but later withdrew interest. He then revealed discussions with CSA were ongoing.

The director of cricket role was created after this year’s World Cup, when the tenure of former head coach Ottis Gibson was ended. A team director position was also introduced and then occupied by the Lions’ Enoch Nkwe in an interim capacity for the tour of India.

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Meanwhile, the Titans’ Jacques Faul has temporarily succeeded permanent CEO Thabang Moroe, who has been placed on precautionary suspension. Faul will be supported by former International Cricket Council CEO Dave Richardson.

‘I am delighted that Graeme has agreed to assist Cricket South Africa up until the IPL next year. Obviously, Graeme has had his concerns during the course of the last few months, but I am pleased to say that we have overcome those concerns and I look forward to working with him to urgently address pressing cricketing matters in particular,’ said Faul.

‘Graeme is statistically the most successful Test captain in the history of the game. He is a natural leader and his knowledge of the game is second to none. To have him on board to work with the professional cricket arm of CSA, as well as the cricketing pipeline, which is so vital for our game, is a massive shot in the arm for CSA during this period.’

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