Surrey coach Graham Ford has refuted suggestions that Kevin Pietersen and Graeme Smith do not get along.

The pair, who famously traded sledges during the early part of their international careers with England and South Africa respectively, will be teammates at The Oval this year.

However, Ford has insisted that following a recent meeting between the two, there will be no problems when the season gets underway.

"My understanding is that they get on very well. I know Kevin went out to Cape Town recently and they linked up," the London Evening Standard quotes Ford as saying.

"I think there is a pretty good relationship and huge respect between the two of them, as well as a real understanding of each other's situation. I think they'll work together very well."

Smith will captain Surrey, while Pietersen is primarily expected to play Twenty20 fixtures.