With the world’s top ODI batsman — Graeme Smith — leading them, the South Africans are all set to “thump” India in the upcoming three-match Test series, feels Proteas’ Cricket Board chief Gerald Majola.

Lauding the in-form Smith for guiding the team to the top of the ICC ODI rankings, Majola said the South Africans will be a tough proposition for the home side.

“Cricket South Africa (CSA) salutes Graeme on remarkable achievements at such a young age. Graeme’s leadership qualities have really come to the fore, and CSA is confident that he will take the Proteas to the No 1 spot in Tests as well,” Majola said in a statement.

“India beware in the forthcoming three-match Test series which starts in Chennai next week. Graeme Smith and his boys are going to thump Anil Kumble and his charges,” he added.

The 27-year-old Smith became the top ODI batsman displacing Sachin Tendulkar after a fine run of form in the series against Bangladesh. The CSA chief lavished praise on the left-hander for his remarkable form with the bat.

“At the age of 27, Graeme Smith has set several landmarks which put him among the best young captain/ batsman yet produced in world cricket,” he said.