Graeme Smith dismisses rumours of quitting top-flight cricket following Irish citizenship

South African Test captain Graeme Smith has dismissed speculations that his granting of Irish citizenship may be a prelude to his departure from top-flight cricket any time soon.

Smith, who is married to Irish singer Morgan Deane, has played Test cricket for South Africa since 2002 (114 caps) and averages just under 50.

According to Sport24, the opening batsman said on Twitter that he loves his country and would always remain a loyal South African, although he added that as half of his family is now Irish, so visiting them would become easier with dual nationality.

The report mentioned that Smith's experience and leadership for the world's No 1-ranked Test side would be invaluable in the three-Test home series against resurgent Australia from mid-February, especially after the retirement of great all-rounder Jacques Kallis.