Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith says Chris Morris and Quinton de Kock are not living up to expectations. 

The 37-year-old has commented on the Proteas’ batting woes ahead of the World Cup.

In an article on ESPNcricinfo, Smith raised his concerns while singling out Morris and De Kock’s form.

‘Recently, our bowlers have done well,’ said Smith. ‘We hope to squeeze a few more years out of [Dale] Steyn as well, but it’s the batting department that worries me.

‘Quinton de Kock – I feel he is stagnating in his career. I would’ve liked to see him grow into the top echelons like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

‘And also Chris Morris. He’s a guy who’s not quite lived up to his expectations. Whether it’s a mental thing or a heart thing, I don’t know. But I really want them to step up ahead of the 2019 World Cup.’

The Proteas kick off their three-match ODI series against the Aussies in Perth on Sunday.