Proteas will play in IPL-3 despite security concerns - Smith

South African players due to play in the Indian Premier League later this month are likely to honour their contracts despite security concerns.

That is according to Proteas captain Graeme Smith, who is confident the authorities in India will provide sufficient security for players.

"It's an ongoing thing," Smith said. "I think it's 99% certain that every player will be going. I know Cricket South Africa, the player associations and the IPL are doing everything possible to make sure that everyone's security fears are addressed."

A number of high-profile players, especially from Australia, have indicated they were considering pulling out of the tournament, which begins in Mumbai on March 12, because of concerns over their safety.

Players' associations from England, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia have been working together to address their members' concerns over terror threats against the IPL and Smith insists that all the Proteas are ready to play.

He added: "We know there have been a few issues around, but I think everyone's making an effort to make the tournament go ahead."

Last year's edition of the competition was relocated to South Africa after a clash with the Indian elections meant certain security services were unavailable, but IPL commissioner Lalit Modi has already stated that there is no chance of moving the third edition in 2010.