Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy to Lead South Africa in Faf du Plessis' Absence

Quinton de Kock will make his international captaincy debut in the remainder of South Africa‘s ODI campaign against Sri Lanka, while JP Duminy will lead the side the ensuing T20 in the absence of Faf du Plessis.

Meanwhile, regular skipper du Plessis sustained a shoulder injury and will miss the remaining games. Previously, de Kock has led the Proteas U19 team, but this will be his first time with an international side.

Quinton de Kock admitted that he is feeling nervous and vouch to carry on Faf du Plessis’ legacy. He also noted that he is grateful to Cricket South Africa for this opportunity.

“To be honest, I am feeling quite nervous, it is an honour to be given this responsibility of captaining the Proteas,” he said. “I want to carry on where Faf has left off and to continue with his legacy. As a captain, I will try to stay true to myself and stay true to what I believe it takes to be a good leader. I will strive to help others going forward, just to be there as a captain,” Quinton de Kock added.

However, South Africa have an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match ODI with the last win coming in last Sunday. Du Plessis hurt his shoulder while diving for a catch and played no further part in the match.

“Faf sustained an injury to one of the rotator cuff tendons in his right shoulder and will, unfortunately, be unavailable for the rest of the tour. He will need a rehabilitation period of up to six weeks to make a full recovery,” the team manager said.

Aiden Markram not considered for captaincy

Coach Ottis Gibson said they didn’t think about Aiden Markram for the role. Meanwhile, the young batsman captained South Africa in five ODIs against India earlier this year.

“Aiden captained against India and he is not currently in the team, he has had some struggles on this Sri Lanka tour so far,” Gibson explained. “We thought we would have a look at Quinton for the next two games, which will give Aiden time to settle himself,” he concluded.