Galle - Quinton de Kock, fresh from his fifth one-day international century on Saturday, looks set to win his second Test cap against Sri Lanka on Wednesday, with AB de Villiers struggling with a niggling strain on his right hamstring.
The Proteas ODI skipper felt it while making his decisive century in the final ODI against the hosts in Hambantota, but fielded with no real discomfort. The concern, according to team management, is that an extended period of keeping will put too much strain on it, which is why De Kock had the gloves on during Monday’s extended team practice at the Galle International Stadium.
De Kock now looks set to slot in at number seven in the batting order, with the Proteas likely to play a solitary spinner in Imran Tahir, who will be supported by JP Duminy and Dean Elgar.
Meanwhile, Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene, has announced that he will play just four more Tests before retiring from the ultimate format. The 145-Test veteran, a former captain at various stages, has amassed over 11000 runs in Test cricket, and will finish his career against Pakistan, who tour the island immediately after the Proteas.
The first Test between Sri Lanka and South Africa is in Galle, and starts on Wednesday.
Independent Newspapers