Smith has sent three English captains into retirement following pivotal series wins - Nasser Hussain (2003), Michael Vaughan (2008) and Andrew Strauss (2012).

“Smith has captained the side very well in combination with Gary Kirsten as coach. He has been brilliant. He has done with England captains like Nasser and Vaughan. He makes runs, leads from the front,” Procter said.

Smith, the 102-Test opener who steered the Proteas to their first Test series triumph in Australia against Ricky Ponting’s team four years ago, commands a South African side with an answer for every situation, News.com.au reports.

There will be no relief for Australia, who must counter seven specialist batsmen, including all-rounders Jacques Kallis and AB de Villiers, all flanked by the game's premier attack.

“The bases are covered, bowling, batting, fielding. Every aspect,” Procter said.