Johannesburg – Uncapped all-rounder Faf du Plessis has been called up to the Proteas Test squad as cover for Albie Morkel, who is recovering from an ankle injury.
Du Plessis would be on standby, Cricket SA said in a statement on Tuesday, ahead of the second Test against England starting in Leeds on Thursday.
“Albie (Morkel) has been diagnosed with an impingement syndrome of his left ankle, which will make him unavailable for selection for this Test match,” said Proteas team Manager Mohammed Moosajee.
“It is not a major injury, so he will remain on tour with the squad and receive the necessary treatment.”
Convenor of selectors Andrew Hudson said they had been “delighted” with Du Plessis' progress in recent years.
“It has been fantastic to see how he has improved in all three formats and how he has moulded himself into a versatile cricketer that can slot into any position in the batting order,” Hudson said.
“We feel that he will give us extra options as the reserve player.”
Du Plessis, who has played 21 one-day internationals but has yet to make his Test debut, was set to join the squad on Wednesday morning. – Sapa