Biff on a hiding to nothing

Smith wasn't liked from the start, this was the main issue because he was thrown in at the deep-end by CSA. There were some issues in the team when he was made captain. Polly losing captaincy, Zulu, etc.

The difference is someone like AB is universally liked and respected by all South African fans and Internationally. That's why it will be easier for AB who already has respect around the world. Smith on the other hand never had to earn respect, because he was given captaincy/ responsibility at such a young age. This simply didnt sit well with many people and its been a struggle ever since.