'Retired' Smith kept vigil at 'burnt' daughter's bedside hours ahead of third Test

Retired South African Test captain Graeme Smith was reportedly with his wife keeping vigil at the bedside of his one-year-old daughter in hospital just hours before he took the field during his final Test.

Smith's daughter Cadence Christine Smith was burnt in an incident during the second Test against Australia two weeks ago and on Tuesday underwent surgery.

According to News.com.au, South African team manager Dr Mohammad Moosajee confirmed that Smith had been with his wife Morgan at his daughter's bedside at Life Kingsbury Hospital shortly before the start of the fourth day's play in Cape Tow, adding that the surgery was completed successfully.

Moosajee further said that like any father, it was important for Smith to accompany his daughter to surgery, adding that the management have always emphasised that players' families are as important as important as their careers.

Smith's daughter had tipped her brother's heated milk onto herself resulting in burns severe enough to require three operations, the report added.