Smith - I'm no muppet

Smith: More relaxed

I think I've changed a hell of a lot and like to think I've matured. I've gained a lot more experience.

Graeme Smith
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England v South Africa
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Graeme Smith claims he has "changed a hell of a lot" from the captain who led his side to a 2-2 series draw in England in 2003.

Smith was fist handed the captaincy as a 22-year-old when he was thrust into the role to replace Shaun Pollock following the 2003 World Cup.

After a gentle introduction in Bangladesh, he announced himself to the English public with scores of 277 at Edgbaston and 259 at Lord's in the opening two Tests of the series.

But the left-hander was keen to stamp his mark as captain, and his abrasive nature resulted in England batsman Kevin Pietersen once describing Smith as "an absolute muppet".

Despite his critics, Smith has led the Proteas to number two in the ICC Test rankings, and although the 27-year-old insists his competitive streak has not diminished, he believes he is a calmer figure than in previous times.

Matured

"I think I've changed a hell of a lot and like to think I've matured. I've gained a lot more experience," said Smith.

"I've experience on the field in terms of tactically making decisions. I'm in a far better 'place' than I was five years ago.

"At 22 I was very impulsive, looking to take on everybody and get involved.

"I was new into the job; everyone was challenging you, whether you are good enough - whether it was the opposition captain or players or the media.

"The opposition teams were looking on me as a weakness. As a result you really feel you've got to prove yourself, and I sometimes said the wrong things.

Belief

"I think I've settled down a lot more since then, am much more comfortable with my environment and what I need to do - and I know what is important to me. I've come a long way since then."

South Africa were pegged back after taking a 2-0 lead when they visited England in 2003, but Smith has complete faith his current side can go one better as they prepare for the opening Test at Lord's on July 10.

He said: "I believe in the team we have got, and there is cross-the-board belief in this team in terms of each other's performances and the roles they can play - and that is a unique environment to be in.

"We'd like to be remembered for the type of cricket we played, how competitive the series was - whether it was Dale Steyn up against Kevin Pietersen or Graeme Smith or Jacques Kallis up against someone else.

"That is the type of legacy we would like to leave when we go home, and I hope it turns out that way."