Grace Hayden talks with Graeme Smith about early leadership, life after cricket, and building the future of South African cricket.
In this episode of Game On with Grace, host Grace Hayden sits down with former South African captain and current SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith. Graeme became the youngest Test captain in South African history at just 22 and went on to lead his country for more than a decade, guiding his team to over 50 Test victories.
Grace and Graeme talk about growing up in the South African cricket system, navigating pressure at a young age, and learning how to lead during periods of transition and scrutiny. Graeme shares stories from his early tours, what it was like facing Australia's dominant era, and how relationships formed off the field have lasted long after retirement. He also speaks candidly about the challenges of stepping away from cricket, finding new direction, and shaping the SA20 as a platform for the next generation of players.
This conversation brings forward the competitor, the leader, and the person behind one of cricket’s significant modern careers.