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Cape Town - Proteas Test skipper Graeme Smith will not be fit enough to represent the Cape Cobras in the One-Day Cup final against the Highveld Lions at the Wanderers.
Smith missed the Cobras' semi-final against the Titans last week after injuring his elbow in practice, and according to Die Burger's website, he won't be risked for Friday's clash at the Bullring. Andrew Puttick will therefore retain his place as opening batsman alongside Richard Levi.
However, the Cobras may call on Proteas seamer Vernon Philander's services should veteran Justin Kemp fail to recover in time from a hamstring niggle. Kemp - who is nowadays utilised more for his bowling than batting expertise - picked up the injury against the Titans on Sunday.
Video highlights: Cobras v Titans
The Cobras are on a six-game winning streak and coach Paul Adams is confident they can turn that into seven and defend their title on Friday night.
"We started the competition slowly, but I'm really impressed by how the guys adapted. We are currently playing very good cricket. We maybe also have the advantage of playing more cricket over the last few weeks," he said.
The Lions' last two games were rained out and they also avoided a semi-final courtesy of finishing top of the log standings.
Play starts from 15:00 on Friday.
Smith missed the Cobras' semi-final against the Titans last week after injuring his elbow in practice, and according to Die Burger's website, he won't be risked for Friday's clash at the Bullring. Andrew Puttick will therefore retain his place as opening batsman alongside Richard Levi.
However, the Cobras may call on Proteas seamer Vernon Philander's services should veteran Justin Kemp fail to recover in time from a hamstring niggle. Kemp - who is nowadays utilised more for his bowling than batting expertise - picked up the injury against the Titans on Sunday.
Video highlights: Cobras v Titans
The Cobras are on a six-game winning streak and coach Paul Adams is confident they can turn that into seven and defend their title on Friday night.
"We started the competition slowly, but I'm really impressed by how the guys adapted. We are currently playing very good cricket. We maybe also have the advantage of playing more cricket over the last few weeks," he said.
The Lions' last two games were rained out and they also avoided a semi-final courtesy of finishing top of the log standings.
Play starts from 15:00 on Friday.
