Smith says he still respects India

South Africa skipper Graeme Smith says there is still "a lot of respect" between the two top-ranked teams despite the on-field confrontation involving the Proteas skipper and fast bowler S Sreesanth in the second Test in Durban.

South Africa and India captains Graeme Smith and Mahendra Singh Dhoni have met to discuss any lingering problems between the teams ahead of the series-deciding third Test at Newlands.

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Smith says there is still "a lot of respect" between the two top-ranked teams despite the on-field confrontation involving the Proteas skipper and fast bowler Shanthakumaran Sreesanth in the second Test in Durban, which India won to level the series. Smith claims Sreesanth "crossed the line" with some of his sledging, but adds the matter has been dealt with after talking with Dhoni.

Dhoni says "it's quite difficult to control Sreesanth. Hopefully, he will be on the right side this time and ... it will not be personal."

The third Test starts on Sunday.