Kallis identifies striking similarities between fearless Graeme, Steven Smith

Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis has lauded Australian big-hitting batsman Steven Smith, identifying the stunning similarities between the Test skipper and ex-South African captain Graeme Smith, who both lead without fear or favour.

Smith holds the record for most Test wins, 53, and matches 109, as skipper but Steven is the first Test captain to post tons in his initial three starts in charge.

Kallis, who with Steven is the only batsmen to make a ton in each Test of a four-match series, said that the Australian has had a very successful season and the type of character that fights for everything and doesn't give an inch, News.com.au reported.

Kallis plundered 712 runs at 178.00 against Brian Lara's hapless West Indies unit during 2003-04, surpassed by Steven's 769 against India this summer.

Kallis said that he sees a bright future for Steven and successful captaincy.

Graeme became South Africa's youngest leader at 22 but hammered double tons in his third and fourth Tests as captain in England during 2003.

Steven is the current Australian skipper in Test ranks. The New South Welshman shares a self-belief built on leadership by incredible on-field deeds with Graeme who retired after South Africa's Test series loss to Australia in March.

Kallis said that both the Smiths are very much similar, taking over then trying to lead from the front. He added that Steven is an aggressive type of guy and he believes it would be good for Australian cricket.