Smith embraces favourites tag

NEW DELHI, Oct 6 (Reuters) - South Africa captain Graeme Smith embraced on Friday the idea his side were regarded as one of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy in India.

Skipper Graeme Smith at the general press briefing held in New Delhi prior to the start of the Champion’s Trophy

“I think it is realistic being number two in the world that you are going to be recognised as one of the teams that can win the tournament,” Smith told a news conference.

“We're not going to shy away from that tag.”

The Proteas arrived without batsman Herschelle Gibbs, who is due to meet Indian police next week for questioning over his involvement in the Hansie Cronje match-fixing scandal of 2000.

Six years ago, Gibbs was fined and suspended for six months after admitting he agreed to under-perform in a one-day game against India in exchange for money.

The offer was relayed to him by then captain Cronje, who was subsequently banned from cricket for life.

South Africa media manager Gordon Templeton said Smith and coach Mickey Arthur would not answer questions on Gibbs at Friday's news conference.

Smith focused on his own comeback after undergoing ankle surgery in July, confident South Africa could repeat their victory in the inaugural edition of the tournament in 1998.

“It is fantastic to be back,” he said. “It is good to spend some time away but it was tough to be away from the guys.

“I'm looking forward to playing some good cricket on a personal and team level.”

Hosts South Africa claimed a 3-0 series sweep over Zimbabwe last month and play three warm-up games in India before their opening tie against New Zealand in Mumbai on Oct. 16.

“We've done well lately,” he said. “That confidence will stand us in good stead but we have our feet firmly on the ground.”

Arthur said all rounder Jacques Kallis's comeback from elbow surgery would boost the team.

“We really missed Graeme and Jacques in Sri Lanka,” said Arthur.