Smith aiming to continue prolific trend in South Africa

Johannesburg, Dec 12 (IANS/CMC) Prolific opening batsman Devon Smith is backing himself to be among the top scorers for the West Indies on their tour of South Africa after leaving the Caribbean as the leading scorer in the WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL).

Smith marked his comeback to the West Indies team with a classy century on the second day of the three-day fixture against the South African Invitational XI, at Willowmore Park Thursday, reported CMC.

The experienced left-handed opener made 174 before he retired out as the West Indies amassed 508, to earn a first innings lead of 383.

"I feel good. I think I was in good touch for the first round of the first class season. I had the most runs before I left home so I think this trend continued from where I left off," said Smith.

"I am a little more mature now so I think my game play is different than before."

Smith played shots all around the ground and faced 277 balls and hit 25 boundaries and a six.

He featured in a massive third wicket stand of 360 with Marlon Samuels, who made a boundary-studded 203 on a good batting surface.

The Grenadian cricketer disclosed that he has amended his approach to batting and says he intends to use the tour of South Africa as an opportunity to cement his place on the West Indies team.

"I think it's a good chance for me to pull myself back on the West Indies team and try and cement my place on the team," he said.

"Application. I try to apply myself as long as possible to the wicket and I think I am a bit more selective in my shot playing and I am concentrating on my game more. I am a bit more focused than before."

Smith, 33, has been in superb form this season, amassing 334 runs at an average of 55, including a score of 145, to lead Windward Islands to victory over Leeward Islands in the third round of the PCL.

--IANS/CMC

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