Johannesburg - Members of the Australian cricket team visited the Smile Foundation in Johannesburg on Tuesday, taking a break from their preparations for the first Test against the Proteas.

Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft, Pat Cummins, Mitch Marsh, Jhye Richardson and Mitch Starc were the players who attended to learn about the foundation’s work and spend time reading stories and drawing pictures with the 35 children currently based at the ward awaiting surgery.

The plastic and reconstructive surgery provided by the foundation transforms the lives of these children who are often ostracized when living with their facial conditions.

The visit was managed in partnership with the Australian High Commission in South Africa.

"The Australian High Commission has supported the Smile Foundation for many years now and it is just great that the players have been able to see for themselves some of the life changing work that Smile does," Australian High Commissioner to South Africa Adam McCarthy said.

"I will never forget the excitement on the kids faces and I just want to thank the team for making the time to come here and Smile for bringing this all together."