South African cricket captain Graeme Smith is a major doubt for his team's second Test against India in Kolkata, starting on February 13th.

The opening batsman suffered a hand injury in fielding practice and while an initial scan found he had not suffered a break, it is believed he has sustained significant ligament damage.

South Africa's media manager Michael Owen-Smith commented: "There's obviously some ligament damage," adding that an MRI scan will now take place to assess how bad it is.

The absence of the captain would be a major blow to the team as it defends a 1-0 lead after securing victory in the first Test.

People suffering from a ligament injury may find that using home ultrasound treatment aids recovery from the problem.

One sportsman responding well to treatment on a ligament injury is footballer Clint Dempsey.

The Fulham midfielder was injured last month and was expected to endure a long spell on the sidelines, but is now expected to be back in training within the next few weeks.