Smith was earlier encouraged to apply for the post by embattled CSA chief executive officer Thabang Moroe as the board sought a long-term replacement for Ottis Gibson, whose contract was not renewed. Smith had turned down the offer but a report in South Africa's Sunday Times said that he had now been persuaded to accept it.

"Contrary to media reports I have not been appointed Director of Cricket by CSA. As previously advised, I withdrew my application for the role. I am, however, in ongoing discussions with CSA, but I still have real concerns, which I have reiterated to them," Smith clarified on Twitter.

Earlier on November 14, Smith had issued a statement that he was withdrawing his application having "not developed the necessary confidence that I would be given the level of freedom and support to initiate the required changes".