SA vs IND 2018: Aiden Markram to Lead Proteas in Absence of Du Plessis

Young batsman Aiden Markram has been named as the South African captain for the remainder of the ODI series against India. He will replace Faf du Plessis, who got ruled out of the series with a finger injury.

“We’re aware Markram is new to the setup, but he’s always been part of our plans since his U-19 (captaincy). We want to have a pool of leaders,” Cricket South Africa (CSA) said in a press release.

Markram has played only two ODI games so far for South Africa, and he finds himself with the responsibility in the absence of du Plessis and AB de Villiers, who was earlier ruled out from the first three ODIs.

However, Markram had led the South African U-19 team to the junior World Cup title in 2014 which went in his favor. Till date, it is their only title win in the history of the U19 World Cup. Markram has also led his domestic side Titans this season.

Markram is absolutely delighted by this opportunity and admitted that it is a dream come true moment.

“As a little boy, you dream of captaining your country one day. (It’s a) super humbling experience. What happened to Faf in Durban was a freak incident. I officially heard (about me becoming captain) first thing this morning. It’s something you can’t take for granted. I enjoy captaining and it’s gonna be an additional pressure to deal with. Hopefully, it’s a good pressure,” Markram said.

The young batsman also admitted that he will consult senior player before taking decisions.

“I’ll keep sending messages to Faf on and off the field asking for advice. I’ll definitely consult senior players for the best interest of the side,” Markram added.

Markram is a regular feature in the Test side having played six Tests scoring 520 runs at an average of 52.

South Africa is 1-0 down in the six-match series and will be keen to come back and level the series. The second game is scheduled to be played tomorrow (Sunday) in Centurion.

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