Hashim Amla Named New South African Test Captain

South African star batsman Hashim Alma was named the country's Test cricket captain on Tuesday, replacing retiring Graeme Smith who led the side for a decade.

A "glad and humbled" Amla said he would give "all his heart" to the role, vowing to put together a "winning combination" able to return South Africa to the top of the Test rankings.

"Throughout the years I have concentrated mainly on my batting, trying to become the best batsman possible and hopefully I can still get there," Amla said.

"But now I do feel it is time to act, to contribute in a team environment."

Amla, 31, who made his test debut against India in Kolkata 10 years ago, praised the work done by his predecessor, whose legacy looms large.