South African captain Graeme Smith, has been withdrawn from the Cape Cobras squad for the Champions League Twenty20, tournament starting in India October.

Smith had suffered cramps while batting against England in their final Champions Trophy match.

Cricket South Africa announced based on the advice of CSA's medical committee.

Dr Mohammed Moosajee, the national team manager said, "After much discussion and deliberation, the Proteas' management together with the medical committee of Cricket South Africa headed by Dr Shuaib Manjra have made a decision to withdraw Graeme from the upcoming Champions League in India."

"This decision is based on Graeme's current upper limb dysfunction," he added.

Brandon Jackson, team physiotherapist advices Smith to be away from playing cricket for the next four to six weeks in order to get through a very long season.

"We need to work on strengthening his muscles around the shoulder area and continue his post-operation rehab," Jackson said.

"The elbow operation was 100 percent successful and I am confident that he will be ready for action by the start of the England series in November." Jackson said.

Smith said he was very disappointed not to be leading the South African domestic Twenty20 champions in India.

"It is very important for South African cricket that the two franchises representing us in India should do well," Smith said.

"And, like all the national players, I enjoy playing franchise cricket whenever national circumstances permit," he added.

Smith is expected to play for England series which starts in November