South Africa’s hopes of coming back to winning ways in Tests took a huge blow when their star batsman and captain AB de Villiers along with senior pacer Morne Morkel were ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand due to injuries.After losing 3-0 in Test series in India, the Proteas had to face a 2-1 defeat by England in their own backyard.
Faf du Plessis will now lead the side. However, South Africa will have plenty of options in the pace bowling department as Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander are making a comeback to the team after recovering from injuries. Left-arm pacer Wayne Parnell has also been recalled in the Test team. Apart from them Kagiso Rabada, Kyle Abbott, and Chris Morris are already in the team.
Disappointed over the injury, de Villiers said: “I’m naturally disappointed to miss the Test series against New Zealand, particularly because I have not missed a Test match through injury since my debut in 2004. However, with an exciting summer of cricket ahead, it is obviously sensible to give my elbow time to heal properly. The Proteas finished last season on a positive note with a win against England in the last Sunfoil Test match, and I am confident that, with Faf at the helm, the team will build on this success.”
Commenting on the injuries setback, Linda Zondi, CSA’s Selection Convener, said: “It is most unfortunate that we will not be able to call on two players of the quality and experience of De Villiers and Morkel. However, we are fortunate to have a capable stand-in leader in Faf du Plessis and other exciting options to select from,” he said.
“Injuries are a reality that we have to deal with and with both Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander fit and firing again after their respective long-term injuries, I am confident that we have the players to take on New Zealand and win.
“Another very encouraging sign is the good pre-season form being shown by a number of Test squad members during the two South Africa A four-day series. These include Stephen Cook, Dean Elgar, Stiaan van Zyl, Vernon Philander and Dane Piedt,” he added.
Test squad:
Faf du Plessis (Captain), Kyle Abbott, Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Stephen Cook, Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Dean Elgar, Chris Morris, Wayne Parnell, Vernon Philander, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn, Stiaan van Zyl