Smith, Amla cleared to take on India in first Test

In what should please South Africa no end, skipper Graeme Smith and in-form batsman Hashim Amla have been cleared to play in the first Test of the three-match series against India, starting Thursday in Centurion.

"Graeme's hand is good. Doctors have cleared him and he's ready to go. He's confident and looking forward to this week's preparation. We just hope that we can get out there and prepare," said coach Corrie van Zyl.

"Hashim seems to be fine and started his preparations last week," van Zyl was quoted as saying by Times Live.

Injuries to both players during last month's series against Pakistan in the UAE cast doubts over their participation in the clash against the world number one side.

While the ring finger on Smith's left hand was broken in the first ODI against Pakistan, Amla was struck on the left wrist while fielding on the last day of the second Test against the same opponents.