South Africa star Faf du Plessis ruled out of First Test with England after his wife gives ‘difficult birth’
SOUTH AFRICA have suffered a serious blow with captain Faf du Plessis ruled out the First Test on Thursday.
Du Plessis will remain in South Africa to be with his wife Imari after she went through what is described as the “difficult” birth of their first child.
Faf du Plessis will remain in South Africa for the First Test against EnglandPA:Press AssociationHe is expected to return for the second test on July 14AP:Associated Press
Opening batsman Dean Elgar, who has been playing for Somerset this summer, will lead the Proteas in the absence of du Plessis.
Du Plessis hoped to play in the First Test when the baby was born last week but is now not expected to be available until the Second Test at Trent Bridge on July 14.
He tweeted: “Extremely sad that I won’t be able 2 front up 2 the challenge with the team. Be there soon. In the meantime, I will be their No.1 couch fan.”
The Proteas will play either Theunis de Bruyn or Aiden Markram as replacement for du Plessis.
Quick bowler Vernon Philander has been passed fit after picking up an ankle injury during a stint with Sussex.
Extremely sad that I won't be able 2 front up 2 the challenge with the team.Be there soon.In the meantime I will be their nr1 couch fan https://t.co/cycbvpPt9x
Dean Elgar will skipper the South Africans in Faf du Plessis absenceAction Images Via ReutersGary Ballance is set to come back in for England, thanks to Joe RootAction Images Via Reuters
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