JOHANNESBURG, Aug 22: All-rounder Jacques Kallis was on Monday named as South Africa’s new cricket vice-captain in place of Nicky Boje. Kallis, who is leading run-scorer in Test cricket this year, will serve a deputy to captain Graeme Smith for next year. Smith’s contract has been extended for another two years.

“Graeme has brought commitment and a will to win and that augurs well for the future,” said Cricket South Africa chief executive Gerald Majola.

“We are confident he will take the team up world rankings in both Tests and ODIs, and present a formidable challenge at World Cup.

“The appointment of an experienced world class all-rounder like Jacques Kallis as vice-captain will add much value to team effort. He was a guiding light for younger players last season, and will be of great assistance to Graeme’s captaincy.”

Kallis said: “It is a privilege to represent my country, and to do it at this higher level is even more so. I am really looking forward to working with Graeme in this capacity.”

CSA also said Haroon Lorgat, Joubert Strydom and Mustapha Khan would serve as selectors until after 2007 World Cup.—Agencies