Amla stands down as South Africa captain
In a surprising development, it is learnt that Hashim Amla, the incumbent South African Test captain, has stepped down from the captaincy post the drawn second Test between South Africa and England at the Newlands, Cape Town.
Amla had this to say during the press conference post the Test match when he announced his decision: “This decision was not an easy one to make but I felt I needed to be true to myself; I have given my best.”
During the official press conference after the second Test match, Amla said: "Naturally this decision is not an easy one but the more I think about it the more I believe I can be of greater value to the Proteas as a fully focused batsman and senior player at this time of rebuilding our team.
“I am deeply grateful and privileged to have been the Test captain and I wish to thank CSA for the honour of captaining my country. It was enjoyable and indeed a great learning experience."
AB de Villiers will be leading the Proteas team in the current series. He said: "I've said this before that it is an incredible honour to captain South Africa in any format. The captaincy has obviously come at short notice and is the realisation of a lifelong dream.
At the moment, my priority and focus is placed on leading this team to what can be a memorable series win against England. This Test squad is motivated and determined to turn our performances around and I'm looking forward to taking up that challenge as captain. Hashim is a good friend and close colleague and I am grateful for his support."
More to follow...