The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018.

There has been plenty of talks surrounding de Villiers making his international comeback for South Africa in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020 scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October 2020. While head coach Mark Boucher and captain Quinton de Kock have often opened up about their willingness to bring Mr 360 back in the squad, nothing has been done officially.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-cricketers-in-self-isolation-after-aborted-tour-of-india-287218">South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India</a>

Talking about his comeback plan to the international circuit, de Villiers said he will sit down with the team management after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding his complete focus is on helping Royal Challengers Bangalore.

“Let’s wait and see what happens. My focus is on the Indian Premier League at the moment and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore realise our full potential. Then we will sit down and have a look at the rest of the year and see what is possible,” de Villiers said to a leading news agency.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/planet-is-asking-us-to-be-more-responsible-towards-society-ravichandran-ashwin-appeals-for-social-distancing-to-curb-coronavirus-287203">Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus</a>

While de Villiers did try and make a comeback in the ICC World Cup 2019 but his proposal was rejected by the South Africa team management and eventually the Proteas experienced a torrid outing in the quadrennial event. Touching upon his decision to retire early in his career, de Villiers said he wanted to see his wife and two young sons more and strike a balance between family and cricket.

“Each player must consider his own circumstances and make his own decision. I reached a point where I wanted to see more of my wife and two young sons and seek a reasonable balance between family and cricket. The mental and physical demands on the leading players are massive these days, but each player must decide what he can and can’t do,” de Villiers said.

The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018.

The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018. There has been plenty of talks surrounding de Villiers making his international comeback for South Africa in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020 scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October 2020. While head coach Mark Boucher and captain Quinton de Kock have often opened up about their willingness to bring Mr 360 back in the squad, nothing has been done officially. ALSO READ: South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India Talking about his comeback plan to the international circuit, de Villiers said he will sit down with the team management after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding his complete focus is on helping Royal Challengers Bangalore. “Let’s wait and see what happens. My focus is on the Indian Premier League at the moment and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore realise our full potential. Then we will sit down and have a look at the rest of the year and see what is possible,” de Villiers said to a leading news agency. ALSO READ: Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus While de Villiers did try and make a comeback in the ICC World Cup 2019 but his proposal was rejected by the South Africa team management and eventually the Proteas experienced a torrid outing in the quadrennial event. Touching upon his decision to retire early in his career, de Villiers said he wanted to see his wife and two young sons more and strike a balance between family and cricket. “Each player must consider his own circumstances and make his own decision. I reached a point where I wanted to see more of my wife and two young sons and seek a reasonable balance between family and cricket. The mental and physical demands on the leading players are massive these days, but each player must decide what he can and can’t do,” de Villiers said.

'My focus is on...' - AB de Villiers breaks his silence on South Africa comeback

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India.

The players arrived back in South Africa on Wednesday ten days after departing on a tour during which they played no cricket.

The first of three scheduled one-day internationals was abandoned without a ball bowled because of rain and the remaining two were cancelled.

Dr Shuaib Manjra, Cricket South Africa’s medical officer, who accompanied the team on the tour, during which they stayed in or travelled through Dubai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Lucknow and Kolkata, said the cancellation had been decided because of the rapid change in the global coronavirus situation.

“CSA had engaged in a risk assessment before the tour,” said Dr Manjra. “We deemed the risk to be very low. While on tour the world became a different place and we had to take cognisance of the fact that there was a change in the global environment.”

He said the risks were re-assessed, especially the possibility of borders being closed. “Ultimately the players’ frame of mind was the determining factor,” he said, adding the players had been concerned about their families and what was happening in South Africa.

Dr Manjra said the team had effectively been in isolation in India and had travelled on chartered flights and coaches in a sanitised environment.

But he said it had been decided to follow expert guidance on prevention of the spread of the virus.

“We’ve educated the players about the disease,” he said. “We’ve recommended that all players self-isolate and social-distance themselves for a minimum of 14 days to protect people around them and their communities.”

England’s tour of Sri Lanka has also been postponed as the coronavirus pandemic has virtually wiped out the global sporting calendar for the next few months.

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India.

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India. The players arrived back in South Africa on Wednesday ten days after departing on a tour during which they played no cricket. The first of three scheduled one-day internationals was abandoned without a ball bowled because of rain and the remaining two were cancelled. Dr Shuaib Manjra, Cricket South Africa’s medical officer, who accompanied the team on the tour, during which they stayed in or travelled through Dubai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Lucknow and Kolkata, said the cancellation had been decided because of the rapid change in the global coronavirus situation. “CSA had engaged in a risk assessment before the tour,” said Dr Manjra. “We deemed the risk to be very low. While on tour the world became a different place and we had to take cognisance of the fact that there was a change in the global environment.” He said the risks were re-assessed, especially the possibility of borders being closed. “Ultimately the players’ frame of mind was the determining factor,” he said, adding the players had been concerned about their families and what was happening in South Africa. Dr Manjra said the team had effectively been in isolation in India and had travelled on chartered flights and coaches in a sanitised environment. But he said it had been decided to follow expert guidance on prevention of the spread of the virus. “We’ve educated the players about the disease,” he said. “We’ve recommended that all players self-isolate and social-distance themselves for a minimum of 14 days to protect people around them and their communities.” England’s tour of Sri Lanka has also been postponed as the coronavirus pandemic has virtually wiped out the global sporting calendar for the next few months.

South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India

Former Test captain Graeme Smith is set to become Cricket South Africa's (CSA) director of cricket, the governing body's president Chris Nenzani announced on Saturday.

Nenzani added at a press conference he had spoken to 38-year-old Smith earlier in the day.

"I am happy to announce that we have engaged Graeme Smith and I am confirming that by next week Wednesday all of the negotiations around the contract terms that need to take place would have been concluded," said Nenzani, speaking after a special board meeting of CSA, following a week of crisis for the organisation.

If Smith agrees to take the job he will have just over two weeks to put a selection panel and coaching staff in place before the first of four Tests against England, starting in Centurion on December 26.

Despite calls for the resignation of Nenzani and the entire board, Nenzani said the board had been mandated by the organisation's members' council – made up of presidents of the 14 provincial affiliates – "to continue to guide us through this period and turn it around."

The press conference came after a tumultuous week during which five leading journalists had their accreditation withdrawn, a major sponsor announced it would not renew its agreement with CSA and chief executive Thabang Moroe was suspended on charges of misconduct.

Nenzani said a lack of trust in Moroe by Smith was a factor in negotiations which have been conducted sporadically over a period of three months.

Several prominent individuals, as well as the Gauteng cricket board and the SA Cricketers’ Association, called for the board to stand down but Nenzani said the issue had not been raised at a meeting of the members' council which started late on Friday and continued until the early Saturday.

He brushed off the resignations of three of the board's five independent directors.&nbsp;

"We thank them for their service and will engage in a process to fill the vacancies," he said.

Nenzani said the respected Jacques Faul, the chief executive of the Northerns cricket union and a former acting chief executive of SA, had agreed to again become the acting chief executive with immediate effect.

 
&nbsp;

Former Test captain Graeme Smith is set to become Cricket South Africa's (CSA) director of cricket, the governing body's president Chris Nenzani announced on Saturday.

Former Test captain Graeme Smith is set to become Cricket South Africa's (CSA) director of cricket, the governing body's president Chris Nenzani announced on Saturday. Nenzani added at a press conference he had spoken to 38-year-old Smith earlier in the day. "I am happy to announce that we have engaged Graeme Smith and I am confirming that by next week Wednesday all of the negotiations around the contract terms that need to take place would have been concluded," said Nenzani, speaking after a special board meeting of CSA, following a week of crisis for the organisation. If Smith agrees to take the job he will have just over two weeks to put a selection panel and coaching staff in place before the first of four Tests against England, starting in Centurion on December 26. Despite calls for the resignation of Nenzani and the entire board, Nenzani said the board had been mandated by the organisation's members' council – made up of presidents of the 14 provincial affiliates – "to continue to guide us through this period and turn it around." The press conference came after a tumultuous week during which five leading journalists had their accreditation withdrawn, a major sponsor announced it would not renew its agreement with CSA and chief executive Thabang Moroe was suspended on charges of misconduct. Nenzani said a lack of trust in Moroe by Smith was a factor in negotiations which have been conducted sporadically over a period of three months. Several prominent individuals, as well as the Gauteng cricket board and the SA Cricketers’ Association, called for the board to stand down but Nenzani said the issue had not been raised at a meeting of the members' council which started late on Friday and continued until the early Saturday. He brushed off the resignations of three of the board's five independent directors. "We thank them for their service and will engage in a process to fill the vacancies," he said. Nenzani said the respected Jacques Faul, the chief executive of the Northerns cricket union and a former acting chief executive of SA, had agreed to again become the acting chief executive with immediate effect.

Graeme Smith set to become director of Cricket South Africa

South African skipper Faf du Plessis praised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africas-amla-retires-from-international-cricket-241580">Hashim Amla</a>, who announced retirement from international cricket on Thursday and hailed him as the called him 'father figure' of the Proteas.&nbsp;

Du Plessis took to Twitter and wrote, "The mighty # @amlahash...The father figure of our team. So much wisdom, so much humility, always a smile on ur face and has been the rock of the batting line up for as long as I can remember."

"Well done on ur legendary career bud. THANK YOU !!! We definitely gonna miss you," du Plessis further added.&nbsp;

Having played international cricket for 15 years, scoring almost 10,000 Test runs and close to another 10,000 in limited-overs internationals, Amla called time on his career.&nbsp;

"I learnt many lessons during this incredible ride, made many friends and most importantly shared in the love of a brotherhood," he said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa (CSA).&nbsp;

The 36-year-old is the only South African to have scored a triple century in Test cricket and is second behind Jacques Kallis in Test runs for the country (9,282).&nbsp;

Amla also has the highest Test score by a South African batsman against England, India and the West Indies. &nbsp;

Former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar also wished Amla a 'wonderful retired life'.

"You have served your country with great distinction and been a source of inspiration for many youngsters @amlahash! Wishing you a wonderful retired life. Good luck my friend," Tendulkar wrote.

South African skipper Faf du Plessis praised Hashim Amla, who announced retirement from international cricket on Thursday and hailed him as the called him 'father figure' of the Proteas.

South African skipper Faf du Plessis praised Hashim Amla, who announced retirement from international cricket on Thursday and hailed him as the called him 'father figure' of the Proteas. Du Plessis took to Twitter and wrote, "The mighty # @amlahash...The father figure of our team. So much wisdom, so much humility, always a smile on ur face and has been the rock of the batting line up for as long as I can remember." "Well done on ur legendary career bud. THANK YOU !!! We definitely gonna miss you," du Plessis further added. Having played international cricket for 15 years, scoring almost 10,000 Test runs and close to another 10,000 in limited-overs internationals, Amla called time on his career. "I learnt many lessons during this incredible ride, made many friends and most importantly shared in the love of a brotherhood," he said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa (CSA). The 36-year-old is the only South African to have scored a triple century in Test cricket and is second behind Jacques Kallis in Test runs for the country (9,282). Amla also has the highest Test score by a South African batsman against England, India and the West Indies. Former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar also wished Amla a 'wonderful retired life'. "You have served your country with great distinction and been a source of inspiration for many youngsters @amlahash! Wishing you a wonderful retired life. Good luck my friend," Tendulkar wrote.

Faf du Plessis calls Hashim Amla 'father figure' of South Africa team

South Africa's troubles compounded after young fast bowler Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the team's next World Cup game against India here Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ngidi had suffered a left hamstring injury during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723">team's defeat against Bangladesh on Sunday</a> and hobbled out of the field bowling only four overs.

"Ngidi suffered a sharp discomfort in his left hamstring. We decided he had a hamstring strain. He will be out for at least week to 10 days," team doctor Mohammed Moosajee told the media persons after the match against Bangladesh at the Oval.

"He will have a scan tomorrow and hopefully ready for the West Indies game." 
Ngidi has had injury issues having missed IPL due to a side strain while playing a home series against Sri Lanka.

Ngidi's ideal replacement should be Dale Steyn provided he gets fit in time. Steyn bowled a couple of overs in the nets but there is still no clarity on his availability for the India game.

If Steyn doesn't make it, all-rounder Chris Morris could possibly be an ideal replacement candidate.

There was however some positive news for the Proteas as senior batsman Hashim Amla seems to have recovered from the concussions suffered after being hit in the helmet by Jofra Archer.

"The plan is to have him ready for the India game in Southampton. His initial reports on concussion was inconclusive. The next test showed he could bat. However he felt some symptoms and was rested for the Bangladesh game," Moosajee said.

South Africa's troubles compounded after young fast bowler Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the team's next World Cup game against India here Wednesday. Ngidi had suffered a left hamstring injury during team's defeat against Bangladesh on Sunday and hobbled out of the field bowling only four overs.

South Africa's troubles compounded after young fast bowler Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the team's next World Cup game against India here Wednesday. Ngidi had suffered a left hamstring injury during team's defeat against Bangladesh on Sunday and hobbled out of the field bowling only four overs. "Ngidi suffered a sharp discomfort in his left hamstring. We decided he had a hamstring strain. He will be out for at least week to 10 days," team doctor Mohammed Moosajee told the media persons after the match against Bangladesh at the Oval. "He will have a scan tomorrow and hopefully ready for the West Indies game." Ngidi has had injury issues having missed IPL due to a side strain while playing a home series against Sri Lanka. Ngidi's ideal replacement should be Dale Steyn provided he gets fit in time. Steyn bowled a couple of overs in the nets but there is still no clarity on his availability for the India game. If Steyn doesn't make it, all-rounder Chris Morris could possibly be an ideal replacement candidate. There was however some positive news for the Proteas as senior batsman Hashim Amla seems to have recovered from the concussions suffered after being hit in the helmet by Jofra Archer. "The plan is to have him ready for the India game in Southampton. His initial reports on concussion was inconclusive. The next test showed he could bat. However he felt some symptoms and was rested for the Bangladesh game," Moosajee said.

Injured Lungi Ngidi out of India game, Hashim Amla recovering well

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval.&nbsp;

Their previous highest ODI total was 329 for six against Pakistan, which was scored&nbsp;in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After&nbsp;Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan put together a record partnership,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-5-bangladesh-v-south-africa-223604">Bangladesh reached 330 for six wickets</a>.&nbsp;

Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership.&nbsp;

Bangladesh dominated the game and left the South African bowlers with no answers.&nbsp;

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3️⃣3️⃣0️⃣ - 6️⃣ 
 
First game of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> – what a time for Bangladesh to hit their highest-ever ODI total! 
 
WATCH ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA">https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1135186018808868864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;South Africa's gamble of putting Bangladesh into bat and hoping to bounce them out cheaply with their pace attack fell flat on a docile wicket.

Adding to that, the team was exacerbated by a hamstring injury to opening bowler Lungi Ngidi, who left the field after bowling just four overs.&nbsp;

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval.

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval. Their previous highest ODI total was 329 for six against Pakistan, which was scored in 2015. After Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan put together a record partnership, Bangladesh reached 330 for six wickets. Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership. Bangladesh dominated the game and left the South African bowlers with no answers. 3️⃣3️⃣0️⃣ - 6️⃣ First game of #CWC19 – what a time for Bangladesh to hit their highest-ever ODI total! WATCH ⬇️ https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 2, 2019 × Earlier, South Africa's gamble of putting Bangladesh into bat and hoping to bounce them out cheaply with their pace attack fell flat on a docile wicket. Adding to that, the team was exacerbated by a hamstring injury to opening bowler Lungi Ngidi, who left the field after bowling just four overs.

World Cup: Record partnership spurs Bangladesh to score their highest ODI total

Bangladesh faced a major blow as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-south-africa-aim-to-bounce-back-against-injury-stricken-bangladesh-223395#experienced-iqbal-unfit-along-with-mustafizur-mahmudullah-223390">Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury</a> leaves him uncertain for his side's opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-south-africa-aim-to-bounce-back-against-injury-stricken-bangladesh-223395#bangladesh-vs-south-africa-223383">fixture against South Africa</a> in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

The 30-year-old left the field immediately after he was struck a blow on his left wrist during his team's practice session on Friday.

According to Bangladesh Cricket Board officials, Tamim had a precautionary X-ray which showed no fracture, but bruising and swelling might just rule the left-hander out of Sunday's game.

The board further said all-rounder Saifuddin, who is recovering from a back problem is expected to take painkillers to make himself available for the game, ICC reported.

"It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available. But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," selector Habibul Bashar had said before the X-ray scan.

Tamim will undergo another test on Sunday. Based on the result, a decision on his availability will be taken.

The left-hander was forced to miss the warm-up match against India due to pain in his thigh muscle. Tamim's absence will hurt Bangladesh as he has been prolific run-scorer in the top-order.

Bangladesh is already worried about the fitness of Mashrafe Mortaza, Mustafizur Rahman and Mahmudullah, who are suffering from hamstring, calf and shoulder issues respectively.

Bangladesh will begin its World Cup campaign against South Africa at The Oval, London on June 2.

Bangladesh faced a major blow as Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury leaves him uncertain for his side's opening fixture against South Africa in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Bangladesh faced a major blow as Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury leaves him uncertain for his side's opening fixture against South Africa in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The 30-year-old left the field immediately after he was struck a blow on his left wrist during his team's practice session on Friday. According to Bangladesh Cricket Board officials, Tamim had a precautionary X-ray which showed no fracture, but bruising and swelling might just rule the left-hander out of Sunday's game. The board further said all-rounder Saifuddin, who is recovering from a back problem is expected to take painkillers to make himself available for the game, ICC reported. "It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available. But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," selector Habibul Bashar had said before the X-ray scan. Tamim will undergo another test on Sunday. Based on the result, a decision on his availability will be taken. The left-hander was forced to miss the warm-up match against India due to pain in his thigh muscle. Tamim's absence will hurt Bangladesh as he has been prolific run-scorer in the top-order. Bangladesh is already worried about the fitness of Mashrafe Mortaza, Mustafizur Rahman and Mahmudullah, who are suffering from hamstring, calf and shoulder issues respectively. Bangladesh will begin its World Cup campaign against South Africa at The Oval, London on June 2.

Tamim Iqbal to miss Bangladesh's first Cricket World Cup match

South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis on Sunday said that the team wanted to do play like a superhero in the previous editions of the World Cup, adding that his team leaves no stone unturned in giving their best during such tournaments.&nbsp;

"In previous World Cups, we wanted to do Superman things. We thought we had to be more special, we had to do something more than we usually do, and we did not do what was good enough before," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Du Plessis as saying.&nbsp;

"We haven't always got that right in the past, to play our best cricket at the World Cup, because we put so much pressure on ourselves. We want to just focus on enjoying our cricket," he added.&nbsp;

South Africa has built a reputation for themselves of "chokers" after losing big matches. The team has never gone past the semi-final stages of the World Cup.&nbsp;

Du Plessis highlighted that the team needs to overcome its fear of failure to succeed in the World Cup.&nbsp;

"We started a year or two ago with a real focus on mental preparation and, as a captain, I probably speak more about that than previous captains. But I really believe it's an area we can get better in. I've been there and I know the pressures, I understand how to deal with them," Du Plessis said.&nbsp;

"There's a reason why we want the guys to play freely - because we don't want them to have a fear of failure, which is what the World Cup is for some of them. Our success in England over the next couple of months depends on how well we release that aspect of our play - we need that for the team to be at our best. Each player needs to find out his own strengths," he added.&nbsp;

The 34-year-old also said that the team would go with the best possible playing XI in every match, hinting that Hashim Amla's form in the warm-up matches will play a key role in his selection in the playing XI in the first match against England.&nbsp;

"In terms of team selection, that's a call we will make when we get to that first game. We have two warm-up games. Generally, we want to pick on form. If we believe Hash Amla is the guy with the best form for the first game, then he will be picked. But if we feel there are other guys that are more in form we will pick them," Du Plessis said.&nbsp;

South Africa will take on Sri Lanka and West Indies in the warm-up matches before the World Cup on May 24 and May 26.&nbsp;

The team will face England in the opening match of the World Cup on May 30.&nbsp;

South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis on Sunday said that the team wanted to do play like a superhero in the previous editions of the World Cup, adding that his team leaves no stone unturned in giving their best during such tournaments.

South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis on Sunday said that the team wanted to do play like a superhero in the previous editions of the World Cup, adding that his team leaves no stone unturned in giving their best during such tournaments. "In previous World Cups, we wanted to do Superman things. We thought we had to be more special, we had to do something more than we usually do, and we did not do what was good enough before," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Du Plessis as saying. "We haven't always got that right in the past, to play our best cricket at the World Cup, because we put so much pressure on ourselves. We want to just focus on enjoying our cricket," he added. South Africa has built a reputation for themselves of "chokers" after losing big matches. The team has never gone past the semi-final stages of the World Cup. Du Plessis highlighted that the team needs to overcome its fear of failure to succeed in the World Cup. "We started a year or two ago with a real focus on mental preparation and, as a captain, I probably speak more about that than previous captains. But I really believe it's an area we can get better in. I've been there and I know the pressures, I understand how to deal with them," Du Plessis said. "There's a reason why we want the guys to play freely - because we don't want them to have a fear of failure, which is what the World Cup is for some of them. Our success in England over the next couple of months depends on how well we release that aspect of our play - we need that for the team to be at our best. Each player needs to find out his own strengths," he added. The 34-year-old also said that the team would go with the best possible playing XI in every match, hinting that Hashim Amla's form in the warm-up matches will play a key role in his selection in the playing XI in the first match against England. "In terms of team selection, that's a call we will make when we get to that first game. We have two warm-up games. Generally, we want to pick on form. If we believe Hash Amla is the guy with the best form for the first game, then he will be picked. But if we feel there are other guys that are more in form we will pick them," Du Plessis said. South Africa will take on Sri Lanka and West Indies in the warm-up matches before the World Cup on May 24 and May 26. The team will face England in the opening match of the World Cup on May 30.

Don't want team to have a fear of failure, says Faf du Plessis ahead of World Cup

South Africa's veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir conceded only five runs in a decisive super over as they beat Sri Lanka in their opening Twenty20 International on Tuesday after both teams had finished their innings with the same score.

After sending the tourists into bat, the home side restricted Sri Lanka to 134 for seven in their 20 overs, but then blew a commanding position to end with same total, leaving the Newlands encounter to be decided by a one-over eliminator.

David Miller helped South Africa blast 14 runs from their super over, before the wily Tahir restricted Sri Lanka to only five in reply, two of which were wides.

South Africa looked odds-on for victory when they reached 118 for three in their innings, needing 17 runs from 22 balls, but a flurry of late wickets left them needing two off the last delivery with Tahir on strike.

He missed the ball from seamer Isuru Udana, but partner Dale Steyn scrambled through for a single as Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella botched a simple run out to win the game for his side.

Miller had earlier struck a quickfire 41 off 23 balls and put on 66 for the fourth wicket with Rassie van der Dussen (34) as the pair steadied the innings after the home side had lost three early wickets.

But Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga took the game into the final over with a superb spell of bowling, ending with figures of 2-11 in four overs.

Kamindu Mendis top-scored for visitors in their innings, blazing 41 off 29 balls before he was stumped by stand-in wicketkeeper Miller off the bowling of the impressive Tahir.

Miller was handed the gloves as South Africa seek a back-up option to Quinton de Kock at the World Cup in England and Wales, with the former passing his audition with some neat work behind the stumps.

The second match in the series will be played in Pretoria on Friday, before concluding on Sunday in Johannesburg.

South Africa's veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir conceded only five runs in a decisive super over as they beat Sri Lanka in their opening Twenty20 International on Tuesday after both teams had finished their innings with the same score.

South Africa's veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir conceded only five runs in a decisive super over as they beat Sri Lanka in their opening Twenty20 International on Tuesday after both teams had finished their innings with the same score. After sending the tourists into bat, the home side restricted Sri Lanka to 134 for seven in their 20 overs, but then blew a commanding position to end with same total, leaving the Newlands encounter to be decided by a one-over eliminator. David Miller helped South Africa blast 14 runs from their super over, before the wily Tahir restricted Sri Lanka to only five in reply, two of which were wides. South Africa looked odds-on for victory when they reached 118 for three in their innings, needing 17 runs from 22 balls, but a flurry of late wickets left them needing two off the last delivery with Tahir on strike. He missed the ball from seamer Isuru Udana, but partner Dale Steyn scrambled through for a single as Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella botched a simple run out to win the game for his side. Miller had earlier struck a quickfire 41 off 23 balls and put on 66 for the fourth wicket with Rassie van der Dussen (34) as the pair steadied the innings after the home side had lost three early wickets. But Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga took the game into the final over with a superb spell of bowling, ending with figures of 2-11 in four overs. Kamindu Mendis top-scored for visitors in their innings, blazing 41 off 29 balls before he was stumped by stand-in wicketkeeper Miller off the bowling of the impressive Tahir. Miller was handed the gloves as South Africa seek a back-up option to Quinton de Kock at the World Cup in England and Wales, with the former passing his audition with some neat work behind the stumps. The second match in the series will be played in Pretoria on Friday, before concluding on Sunday in Johannesburg.

David Miller, Imran Tahir lead South Africa to super-over victory over Sri Lanka

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray.

South African captain Faf&nbsp;du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said after the fifth match on Saturday night that he was "98 to 99 per cent" sure who would go to England.

He said the "one or two per cent" was to allow for "guys who are really red hot or striking good form".

Sri Lankan captain Lasith Malinga said form in a forthcoming domestic tournament would be important, while he expected experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal – who did not play in South Africa – to be in contention.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;indicated that South Africa were pinning their hopes on a potent bowling line-up to win matches, even if meant that the team might have a lengthy tail.

South Africa’s fast bowlers, backed by leg-spinner Imran Tahir, dominated the Sri Lankan batsmen, who were unable to bat out a full 50 overs in any of the matches.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;cited the example of Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy in England.

"I've been in teams that have had a very long batting line-up and it didn’t prove successful,” said&nbsp;Du&nbsp;Plessis.&nbsp;

"You can learn from your mistakes and you can look at other teams where they have got it right. Pakistan had a very average batting line-up but it didn’t matter to them because they kept bowling teams out.”

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said that if the bowlers performed, it would be up to the top six in the batting order to make sure they scored enough runs.

Malinga, who has captained Sri Lanka to nine one-day losses without a win, said at the post-match presentation: “We tried hard in the last five matches but we didn't get enough runs on the board.”

Against the odds

Malinga said his players had fought hard and the bowlers had stuck to their plans without luck.

But evidence of the fight claimed by Malinga was seldom in evidence during the matches.

With coach Chandika Hathurusingha recalled to Sri Lanka ahead of the remaining matches on tour – three Twenty20 internationals – it seemed Sri Lanka had much to sort out before the World Cup starting on May 30.

But the same was said before last month’s Test series in South Africa, which Sri Lanka won against the odds under the captaincy of Dimuth Karunaratne.

Seven of South Africa’s likely World Cup squad will be playing in the Indian Premier League, which starts on Saturday. The fixtures have not been finalised but it is likely the IPL will only finish about two weeks before the start of the World Cup.

Key bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Tahir, as well as promising fast bowler Anrich Nortje, will be playing in the IPL – as will&nbsp;Du&nbsp;Plessis, Quinton de Kock and David Miller.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said he had no power over IPL decisions, “but if we can get some guys even a week’s break before we join up together that will be great for us. We’ll see if that can be a possibility”.

Du&nbsp;Plessis, Rabada, Ngidi, Tahir and De Kock were all named on Sunday in South Africa’s squad for the first Twenty20 international against Sri Lanka at Newlands on Tuesday but will not play in the last two matches.

South African T20 international squads:

First match: Faf&nbsp;du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;(captain), Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen.

Second and third matches: Duminy (captain),&nbsp; Hendricks, Markram, Miller, Chris Morris, Nortje, Phehlukwayo, Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Steyn, Van der Dussen.

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray.

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray. South African captain Faf du Plessis said after the fifth match on Saturday night that he was "98 to 99 per cent" sure who would go to England. He said the "one or two per cent" was to allow for "guys who are really red hot or striking good form". Sri Lankan captain Lasith Malinga said form in a forthcoming domestic tournament would be important, while he expected experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal – who did not play in South Africa – to be in contention. Du Plessis indicated that South Africa were pinning their hopes on a potent bowling line-up to win matches, even if meant that the team might have a lengthy tail. South Africa’s fast bowlers, backed by leg-spinner Imran Tahir, dominated the Sri Lankan batsmen, who were unable to bat out a full 50 overs in any of the matches. Du Plessis cited the example of Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy in England. "I've been in teams that have had a very long batting line-up and it didn’t prove successful,” said Du Plessis. "You can learn from your mistakes and you can look at other teams where they have got it right. Pakistan had a very average batting line-up but it didn’t matter to them because they kept bowling teams out.” Du Plessis said that if the bowlers performed, it would be up to the top six in the batting order to make sure they scored enough runs. Malinga, who has captained Sri Lanka to nine one-day losses without a win, said at the post-match presentation: “We tried hard in the last five matches but we didn't get enough runs on the board.” Against the odds Malinga said his players had fought hard and the bowlers had stuck to their plans without luck. But evidence of the fight claimed by Malinga was seldom in evidence during the matches. With coach Chandika Hathurusingha recalled to Sri Lanka ahead of the remaining matches on tour – three Twenty20 internationals – it seemed Sri Lanka had much to sort out before the World Cup starting on May 30. But the same was said before last month’s Test series in South Africa, which Sri Lanka won against the odds under the captaincy of Dimuth Karunaratne. Seven of South Africa’s likely World Cup squad will be playing in the Indian Premier League, which starts on Saturday. The fixtures have not been finalised but it is likely the IPL will only finish about two weeks before the start of the World Cup. Key bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Tahir, as well as promising fast bowler Anrich Nortje, will be playing in the IPL – as will Du Plessis, Quinton de Kock and David Miller. Du Plessis said he had no power over IPL decisions, “but if we can get some guys even a week’s break before we join up together that will be great for us. We’ll see if that can be a possibility”. Du Plessis, Rabada, Ngidi, Tahir and De Kock were all named on Sunday in South Africa’s squad for the first Twenty20 international against Sri Lanka at Newlands on Tuesday but will not play in the last two matches. South African T20 international squads: First match: Faf du Plessis (captain), Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen. Second and third matches: Duminy (captain), Hendricks, Markram, Miller, Chris Morris, Nortje, Phehlukwayo, Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Steyn, Van der Dussen.

South Africa pin World Cup hopes on bowlers

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday.&nbsp;

The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target.

For the Proteas, Dale Steyn claimed two wickets and Duane Olivier the other for his 22nd of the series as South Africa removed the top order after Pakistan had made a solid start with a 67-run opening wicket partnership.

Pakistan had been set a target of 381 to win after bowling their hosts out for 303 before tea on the third day of the test in Johannesburg.

They will resume on Monday with Asad Shafiq not out on 48 and Babar Azam on 17.

Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock hit the highest score of the series to put South Africa in a position for a third successive test win.

He scored 129 off 138 balls for only the second century of the series, following Faf du Plessis’ 103 in the second test in Cape Town last week.

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday. The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target.

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday. The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target. For the Proteas, Dale Steyn claimed two wickets and Duane Olivier the other for his 22nd of the series as South Africa removed the top order after Pakistan had made a solid start with a 67-run opening wicket partnership. Pakistan had been set a target of 381 to win after bowling their hosts out for 303 before tea on the third day of the test in Johannesburg. They will resume on Monday with Asad Shafiq not out on 48 and Babar Azam on 17. Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock hit the highest score of the series to put South Africa in a position for a third successive test win. He scored 129 off 138 balls for only the second century of the series, following Faf du Plessis’ 103 in the second test in Cape Town last week.

PAK vs SA: Proteas need seven wickets to sweep third Test, series

The pressure on Virat Kohli before he set foot in South Africa for the Test and limited over series was immense. He was expected to not just lead the team well but also to prove his batting mettle on difficult conditions. After all, a lot of questions had been raised on Kohli&rsquo;s Test batting after his failure to perform against Australia earlier this year and when he had been horribly unsuccessful in England in 2014. A notion had been developed that Kohli struggles against quality fast bowling and on difficult pitches in the longer format.

&nbsp;

Kohli faced twin failures with the bat in the first Test against South Africa at Cape Town. As the ball was moving around prodigiously, it made matters worse for Kohli. India lost the game and Kohli&rsquo;s poor batting show was a cause of concern among Indian fans and brought him a lot of mocking from cricket fans of other countries on social media.

&nbsp;

The task was cut out for Virat Kohli, the batsman.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Kohli&rsquo;s magnificent 153 in the second Test of the series at Centurion has yet again established the batting genius he is. It was one of the finer knocks of his Test career and showed that when he gets going, Kohli can be the best in the world.

&nbsp;

After South Africa had piled on 335 in the first innings of the match, the pressure was on India to respond with aplomb. However, apart from Kohli, hardly any of the other batsmen could manage to stay around for long.

&nbsp;

Kohli, though, seemed to be batting on a completely different pitch altogether. He played with confidence and did not let the pressure get to him. Striking the ball gorgeously through the covers and flicking and driving with &eacute;lan, Kohli brought up his 21st Test hundred in spectacular fashion.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The unevenness of the pitch and South Africa&rsquo;s posse of fast bowlers did not throttle Kohli down. Even as the wickets fell around him, Kohli kept scoring at a brisk rate and managed the strike superbly well to keep India in the hunt. Had Kohli not put his head down and shaped this beautiful knock under pressure, India would certainly have conceded more than a 100-run lead. But Kohli&rsquo;s innings ensured that India now has a chance to remain competitive in the game.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Indian captain led from the front by scoring half of India&rsquo;s runs and nullified all the plans the South African pacers had for him. They bowled tight channels outside off and tried to drag him wide. But Kohli found a way and kept milking the bowling throughout with great confidence.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Kohli&rsquo;s century was the first of the series and given the array of batting talent on display on both sides, this shows how valuable a knock this has been. He was the last man out for India and was dismissed for a glorious 153 off 217 balls with 15 sparkling hits to the fence. He single-handedly brought India from a precarious 164-5 to a very respectable 307 &ndash; just 28 runs behind South Africa&rsquo;s first innings score.

&nbsp;

It remains to be seen what course this match takes now. But Kohli&rsquo;s defining century has certainly been a game-changing one for India and has given them a sliver of a hope for a comeback win.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

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	<li>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Striking the ball gorgeously through the covers and flicking and driving with élan, Kohli brought up his 21st Test hundred in spectacular fashion.

The pressure on Virat Kohli before he set foot in South Africa for the Test and limited over series was immense. He was expected to not just lead the team well but also to prove his batting mettle on difficult conditions. After all, a lot of questions had been raised on Kohli’s Test batting after his failure to perform against Australia earlier this year and when he had been horribly unsuccessful in England in 2014. A notion had been developed that Kohli struggles against quality fast bowling and on difficult pitches in the longer format. Kohli faced twin failures with the bat in the first Test against South Africa at Cape Town. As the ball was moving around prodigiously, it made matters worse for Kohli. India lost the game and Kohli’s poor batting show was a cause of concern among Indian fans and brought him a lot of mocking from cricket fans of other countries on social media. The task was cut out for Virat Kohli, the batsman. Kohli’s magnificent 153 in the second Test of the series at Centurion has yet again established the batting genius he is. It was one of the finer knocks of his Test career and showed that when he gets going, Kohli can be the best in the world. After South Africa had piled on 335 in the first innings of the match, the pressure was on India to respond with aplomb. However, apart from Kohli, hardly any of the other batsmen could manage to stay around for long. Kohli, though, seemed to be batting on a completely different pitch altogether. He played with confidence and did not let the pressure get to him. Striking the ball gorgeously through the covers and flicking and driving with élan, Kohli brought up his 21st Test hundred in spectacular fashion. The unevenness of the pitch and South Africa’s posse of fast bowlers did not throttle Kohli down. Even as the wickets fell around him, Kohli kept scoring at a brisk rate and managed the strike superbly well to keep India in the hunt. Had Kohli not put his head down and shaped this beautiful knock under pressure, India would certainly have conceded more than a 100-run lead. But Kohli’s innings ensured that India now has a chance to remain competitive in the game. The Indian captain led from the front by scoring half of India’s runs and nullified all the plans the South African pacers had for him. They bowled tight channels outside off and tried to drag him wide. But Kohli found a way and kept milking the bowling throughout with great confidence. Kohli’s century was the first of the series and given the array of batting talent on display on both sides, this shows how valuable a knock this has been. He was the last man out for India and was dismissed for a glorious 153 off 217 balls with 15 sparkling hits to the fence. He single-handedly brought India from a precarious 164-5 to a very respectable 307 – just 28 runs behind South Africa’s first innings score. It remains to be seen what course this match takes now. But Kohli’s defining century has certainly been a game-changing one for India and has given them a sliver of a hope for a comeback win. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: What does the 100 against South Africa say about Kohli, the batsman?

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has put in place racial quotas for the national team across all three formats of the game in an effort to increase the number of African-American players in a sport still dominated by whites. 
 
The CSA has sought an average minimum of six Black players, of which two must be Black African, in matches over the season, the organisation announced on Saturday. The move will have little immediate impact on the team as those targets were reached in the recent test series win over New Zealand when the side was at full-strength bar the absence of injured captain AB de Villiers. 
 
&ldquo;The test starting XI that played in the recent series against New Zealand contained six players of colour and two Black Africans, and the ODI starting XI had as many as eight players of colour in their most recent series against the West Indies and Australia,&rdquo; CSA President Chris Nenzani said in a statement. 
 
&ldquo;With the targets being measured over the full season and being cumulative across all three formats, our selectors and team management will have the flexibility to deal with varying circumstances. 
 
&ldquo;This shows very clearly that the targets are very attainable and sustainable and we will maintain the world-class standards that our players regularly produce,&rdquo; he added. 
 
South Africa are next in action in a one-day international against Ireland on September 25, before meeting Australia in the first of five 50-over matches at home on September 30. 
 
CSA have already introduced quotas for the country&#39;s domestic franchise competitions where teams must field at least six players of colour, including three black African players. 
 
However, South Africa&#39;s sports minister Fikile Mbalula has been critical of what he says is the slow rate of change in the country&#39;s major sporting codes, barring football. 
 
The government has been pushing for more black representation in the national teams of popular sports like cricket and rugby still dominated by whites who were favoured for selection during apartheid rule. 
 
It banned its national cricket and rugby federations from hosting or bidding for international tournaments for at least a year in April due to their failure to increase their representation of black players. 
 
The country has seen greater participation among black players in most sports at the junior level despite the challenge of providing adequate school facilities in poorer districts but Mbalula wants to see this reflected at the national team level.

(Reuters)

South Africa will face-off against Ireland in a one-day international on September 25.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has put in place racial quotas for the national team across all three formats of the game in an effort to increase the number of African-American players in a sport still dominated by whites. The CSA has sought an average minimum of six Black players, of which two must be Black African, in matches over the season, the organisation announced on Saturday. The move will have little immediate impact on the team as those targets were reached in the recent test series win over New Zealand when the side was at full-strength bar the absence of injured captain AB de Villiers. “The test starting XI that played in the recent series against New Zealand contained six players of colour and two Black Africans, and the ODI starting XI had as many as eight players of colour in their most recent series against the West Indies and Australia,” CSA President Chris Nenzani said in a statement. “With the targets being measured over the full season and being cumulative across all three formats, our selectors and team management will have the flexibility to deal with varying circumstances. “This shows very clearly that the targets are very attainable and sustainable and we will maintain the world-class standards that our players regularly produce,” he added. South Africa are next in action in a one-day international against Ireland on September 25, before meeting Australia in the first of five 50-over matches at home on September 30. CSA have already introduced quotas for the country's domestic franchise competitions where teams must field at least six players of colour, including three black African players. However, South Africa's sports minister Fikile Mbalula has been critical of what he says is the slow rate of change in the country's major sporting codes, barring football. The government has been pushing for more black representation in the national teams of popular sports like cricket and rugby still dominated by whites who were favoured for selection during apartheid rule. It banned its national cricket and rugby federations from hosting or bidding for international tournaments for at least a year in April due to their failure to increase their representation of black players. The country has seen greater participation among black players in most sports at the junior level despite the challenge of providing adequate school facilities in poorer districts but Mbalula wants to see this reflected at the national team level. (Reuters)

South Africa announce racial quotas for national cricket team