Lower Back Injury Sidelines Faf du Plessis For Six Weeks

South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis has been sidelined for six weeks owing to the lower back injury that he sustained while batting in the third One-Day International against Bangladesh at Buffalo Park on Sunday (October 22). The Proteas star was initially ruled out of the forthcoming T20I series against the Asian side but the team-management has now confirmed he will spend a considerable time away from the cricket field.

Dr Mohammed Moosajee, the South Africa team manager, confirmed the news, stating that the skipper has suffered an acute lumbar disc injury and needs ‘a period of rest and rehabilitation for next six weeks’.

“Faf consulted with our team of specialists in Cape Town on Monday. Further investigations and assessment have confirmed an acute lumbar disc injury. He will require a period of rest and rehabilitation for the next six weeks. We anticipate him to be ready for the Test match against Zimbabwe in December,” Moosajee said.

Meanwhile, left-handed batsman JP Duminy will lead the hosts in the two-game series against Shakib Al Hasan & Co. Dwaine Pretorius has been named the as du Plessis’ replacement. Missing their skipper would be a big blow for the hosts but they would be looking to continue their domination over Bangladesh who are yet to win a game on this tour, having been whitewashed in both Tests as well as ODIs.