Australia's opening batsman David Warner has said, "we will take a knee" when asked to respond to South Africa's Quinton de Kock's decision to withdraw from a match as he declined to take a knee.

Cricket South Africa sent out a directive to its team that all players must take a knee before the start of their second match against the West Indies.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-jos-buttler-hopeful-of-england-to-maintain-momentum-in-bangladesh-face-off-424218">T20 WC: Jos Buttler hopeful of England to maintain momentum in Bangladesh face-off</a>

Quinton de Kock, like Warner, is South Africa's opening batsman and plays a key role in his team's fortunes.

Warner added "I can't go into obviously the South African administration making their team take a knee. So, yeah, from there, it's obviously their decision, each individual's decision to do that. "

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-took-south-africa-back-as-a-team-temba-bavuma-on-quinton-de-kocks-withdrawl-from-west-indies-clash-424268">It took South Africa back as a team: Temba Bavuma on Quinton de Kock's withdrawl from West Indies clash</a>

Warner also said he was not too bothered by his poor scores in the recent matches and is hoping to hit top form soon. 
Australia play Sri Lanka in their second match of the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai on Thursday.&nbsp;

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has said, "we will take a knee" when asked to respond to South Africa's Quinton de Kock's decision to withdraw from a match as he declined to take a knee.

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has said, "we will take a knee" when asked to respond to South Africa's Quinton de Kock's decision to withdraw from a match as he declined to take a knee. Cricket South Africa sent out a directive to its team that all players must take a knee before the start of their second match against the West Indies. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Jos Buttler hopeful of England to maintain momentum in Bangladesh face-off Quinton de Kock, like Warner, is South Africa's opening batsman and plays a key role in his team's fortunes. Warner added "I can't go into obviously the South African administration making their team take a knee. So, yeah, from there, it's obviously their decision, each individual's decision to do that. " ALSO READ: It took South Africa back as a team: Temba Bavuma on Quinton de Kock's withdrawl from West Indies clash Warner also said he was not too bothered by his poor scores in the recent matches and is hoping to hit top form soon. Australia play Sri Lanka in their second match of the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai on Thursday.

T20 WC: 'We will take a knee', David Warner reacts on Quinton de Kock BLM row after SA-WI clash

David Miller, a middle-order batsman for South Africa, has stated that he is relying on Hashim Amla's advice to achieve success in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. South Africa will play Australia in the T20 World Cup opener on October 23 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

"The famous old saying is that you are only as good as your last game, but Hashim always said to me you`re only as good as your next game. It's about resetting the clock and the mind, and trying to control and really be in the present," ESPNcricinfo quoted Miller as saying.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharmas-half-century-helps-india-chase-australias-153-in-second-warm-up-game-422396">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game</a>

"I had the privilege to play with him for many, many years and I suppose what I have learnt from him is to not let failure get you down. We are striving for consistency in performance and, off the field, trying to be a consistent person as well. That`s what I have really enjoyed about Hashim and his influence, being nice and calm, being a pillar of strength; the silent assassin," he further added.

Miller went on to say the following about Amla's impact:&nbsp;"He was about getting the job done but more so, being nice and consistent as a person. It has been a good journey with him and I still keep in touch with him and will continue to do that during this World Cup for any advice."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-rahul-dravid-ms-dhoni-to-sachin-tendulkar-reliving-vintage-commercials-featuring-indian-cricketers-422402">From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers</a>

Miller was also a member of the 2013 Proteas ODI team that played in the UAE, and he now intends to pass on what he learned over the IPL's previous two seasons.

"In terms of leadership, it's really nice to be a part of the group and share my experiences. I feel like we have got a lot to add off the field, what we've learnt in the IPLs, in the previous IPLs and when we played here in Dubai for South Africa against Pakistan. Leadership is something we are taking on more and more, and hopefully, it all plays itself out in results," said Miller.&nbsp;

David Miller, a middle-order batsman for South Africa, has stated that he is relying on Hashim Amla's advice to achieve success in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. South Africa will play Australia in the T20 World Cup opener on October 23 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

David Miller, a middle-order batsman for South Africa, has stated that he is relying on Hashim Amla's advice to achieve success in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. South Africa will play Australia in the T20 World Cup opener on October 23 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. "The famous old saying is that you are only as good as your last game, but Hashim always said to me you`re only as good as your next game. It's about resetting the clock and the mind, and trying to control and really be in the present," ESPNcricinfo quoted Miller as saying. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game "I had the privilege to play with him for many, many years and I suppose what I have learnt from him is to not let failure get you down. We are striving for consistency in performance and, off the field, trying to be a consistent person as well. That`s what I have really enjoyed about Hashim and his influence, being nice and calm, being a pillar of strength; the silent assassin," he further added. Miller went on to say the following about Amla's impact: "He was about getting the job done but more so, being nice and consistent as a person. It has been a good journey with him and I still keep in touch with him and will continue to do that during this World Cup for any advice." ALSO READ | From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers Miller was also a member of the 2013 Proteas ODI team that played in the UAE, and he now intends to pass on what he learned over the IPL's previous two seasons. "In terms of leadership, it's really nice to be a part of the group and share my experiences. I feel like we have got a lot to add off the field, what we've learnt in the IPLs, in the previous IPLs and when we played here in Dubai for South Africa against Pakistan. Leadership is something we are taking on more and more, and hopefully, it all plays itself out in results," said Miller.

T20 World Cup: David Miller banking on Hashim Amla's advice to achieve success in tournament

South&nbsp;African&nbsp;head coach Mark&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques&nbsp;Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star,&nbsp;back&nbsp;in his&nbsp;coaching&nbsp;set-up.

Boucher&nbsp;was speaking on the eve of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26.

Kallis,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa’s leading all-time Test run-scorer, is currently in Sri Lanka as a batting consultant with the England team on a short-term contract.

But&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;“is on my radar” to return in a consultancy role ahead of a planned but unconfirmed Test series against Australia starting in mid-February.

Kallis&nbsp;took on the England job after Kugandrie Govender, then the acting chief executive of Cricket&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa, said in September that the organisation would no longer hire white consultants.&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;was a batting consultant for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa in their home series against England in 2019/20.

Govender later said exceptions could be made if white consultants had unique skills – and she has since been suspended by CSA’s interim board in the wake of an upheaval during which the entire previous board resigned.

Judith February, a member of the interim board, signalled a change of policy earlier this month when she said CSA’s accelerated racial transformation policy had been put on ice.

Boucher&nbsp;said he had not spoken to anyone from CSA on the transformation issue but said the original decision to block white consultants was “a bit of a pill to swallow".

With the exception of former captain Faf du Plessis, who captained a World XI in a Twenty20 series in 2019, none of the&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;players have experience of playing in a country which&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa have not toured since 2007/08.

Kallis&nbsp;hit three centuries in two Test matches on that tour, scoring 421 runs at an average of 210.50 in a&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;series win so he would be ideally suited to offering advice to a largely inexperienced batting line-up.

<h2>No 'buddy selection'&nbsp;</h2>

“The media have been saying he’s my mate and it’s a buddy selection,”&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said of&nbsp;Kallis, the third highest run-scorer in Test history behind India's Sachin Tendulkar and Australia's Ricky Ponting.

“Yes, he is a mate of a mine but he’s also a very good cricketer and he can add a lot of knowledge as well, so why wouldn’t we want him&nbsp;back&nbsp;in our&nbsp;set-up?

“Now that it’s been documented in the press that the rules have been changed a bit, he is certainly someone we would like to get&nbsp;back&nbsp;in a consultancy role. I haven’t had any major conversations with Jacques because he is in Sri Lanka now but certainly in the next short period of time, if we can get him involved soon, maybe against Australia, then we must.

“There are a lot of players who have spoken highly of Jacques and the knowledge that he imparted to them. So, yes, he is on my radar. I just hope we treat him with care. He’s shown that he’s got a lot of other opportunities in world cricket so it would be stupid not to try to hang on to him, as long as we don’t mess him around. I know Jacques would love to be working in&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;cricket.”

Speaking Wednesday from Galle,&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;-- while expressing sadness at the way his time working with&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa had ended -- said he understood the broader context.

"It's the times we're in. There are many other coaches who have gone on to coach other teams –- Gary Kirsten, for example. It's the modern way of the world,"&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;said.

"It's sad in a way that I can't help out in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa but I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here in the England&nbsp;set-up."

South African head coach Mark Boucher said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star, back in his coaching set-up. Boucher was speaking on the eve of South Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26.

South African head coach Mark Boucher said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star, back in his coaching set-up. Boucher was speaking on the eve of South Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26. Kallis, South Africa’s leading all-time Test run-scorer, is currently in Sri Lanka as a batting consultant with the England team on a short-term contract. But Boucher said Kallis “is on my radar” to return in a consultancy role ahead of a planned but unconfirmed Test series against Australia starting in mid-February. Kallis took on the England job after Kugandrie Govender, then the acting chief executive of Cricket South Africa, said in September that the organisation would no longer hire white consultants. Kallis was a batting consultant for South Africa in their home series against England in 2019/20. Govender later said exceptions could be made if white consultants had unique skills – and she has since been suspended by CSA’s interim board in the wake of an upheaval during which the entire previous board resigned. Judith February, a member of the interim board, signalled a change of policy earlier this month when she said CSA’s accelerated racial transformation policy had been put on ice. Boucher said he had not spoken to anyone from CSA on the transformation issue but said the original decision to block white consultants was “a bit of a pill to swallow". With the exception of former captain Faf du Plessis, who captained a World XI in a Twenty20 series in 2019, none of the South African players have experience of playing in a country which South Africa have not toured since 2007/08. Kallis hit three centuries in two Test matches on that tour, scoring 421 runs at an average of 210.50 in a South African series win so he would be ideally suited to offering advice to a largely inexperienced batting line-up. No 'buddy selection' “The media have been saying he’s my mate and it’s a buddy selection,” Boucher said of Kallis, the third highest run-scorer in Test history behind India's Sachin Tendulkar and Australia's Ricky Ponting. “Yes, he is a mate of a mine but he’s also a very good cricketer and he can add a lot of knowledge as well, so why wouldn’t we want him back in our set-up? “Now that it’s been documented in the press that the rules have been changed a bit, he is certainly someone we would like to get back in a consultancy role. I haven’t had any major conversations with Jacques because he is in Sri Lanka now but certainly in the next short period of time, if we can get him involved soon, maybe against Australia, then we must. “There are a lot of players who have spoken highly of Jacques and the knowledge that he imparted to them. So, yes, he is on my radar. I just hope we treat him with care. He’s shown that he’s got a lot of other opportunities in world cricket so it would be stupid not to try to hang on to him, as long as we don’t mess him around. I know Jacques would love to be working in South African cricket.” Speaking Wednesday from Galle, Kallis -- while expressing sadness at the way his time working with South Africa had ended -- said he understood the broader context. "It's the times we're in. There are many other coaches who have gone on to coach other teams –- Gary Kirsten, for example. It's the modern way of the world," Kallis said. "It's sad in a way that I can't help out in South Africa but I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here in the England set-up."

Boucher wants Kallis back in South African coaching set-up

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination.

ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute".

CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct".

Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. 
Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5.

CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference.

In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board.

"CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication.

"In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation. SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination. ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute". CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct". Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5. CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference. In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board. "CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication. "In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South Africa's Olympic body takes control of CSA, asks its board to step aside pending investigation

The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon. Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who was tested positive for COVID-19, stayed in the same five-star hotel as the South African cricket team, who were in India for a three-match ODI series against the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue. The series was ultimately postponed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. <o:p></o:p>

Kapoor was tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday after returning from London and had attended a party at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow – where the South Africa cricket team were staying ahead of the second ODI which was scheduled to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on March 15 before the series was called off.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-takes-dig-at-icc-after-best-pull-shot-tweet-288013">Rohit Sharma takes dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet</a></o:p>

As per reports, Kapoor dined in the hotel’s buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby. <o:p></o:p>

"There are reports that she dined in the hotel's buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby," an official was quoted as saying on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

"She was living there at a time when the South African team was staying in the hotel for the ODI match, which eventually was called off. There is information that Kanika was seen briefly attending a news channel's annual conclave held at the hotel. Therefore, it is important to scan the CCTV footage and list those who came in contact with her,” the official added.<o:p></o:p>

Since the news broke out that Kapoor stayed at Taj Hotel in Lucknow, the hotel has been shut without any reason being cited for doing so.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-legend-kumar-sangakkara-in-self-quarantine-after-returning-from-uk-287994">Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK</a>

Even former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and her son and BJP MP Dushyant Singh attended the same party which Kapoor attended as a guest. The duo had met Kapoor in Lucknow but they tested negative for the COVID-19. However, both of them will continue to be in isolation for 15 days.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has left the sporting calendar shattered with every major tournaments and leagues getting either postponed or cancelled. Several question marks are being raised on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as Canada on Monday became the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event due to coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon.

The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon. Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who was tested positive for COVID-19, stayed in the same five-star hotel as the South African cricket team, who were in India for a three-match ODI series against the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue. The series was ultimately postponed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Kapoor was tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday after returning from London and had attended a party at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow – where the South Africa cricket team were staying ahead of the second ODI which was scheduled to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on March 15 before the series was called off. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma takes dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet As per reports, Kapoor dined in the hotel’s buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby. "There are reports that she dined in the hotel's buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby," an official was quoted as saying on Sunday. "She was living there at a time when the South African team was staying in the hotel for the ODI match, which eventually was called off. There is information that Kanika was seen briefly attending a news channel's annual conclave held at the hotel. Therefore, it is important to scan the CCTV footage and list those who came in contact with her,” the official added. Since the news broke out that Kapoor stayed at Taj Hotel in Lucknow, the hotel has been shut without any reason being cited for doing so. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK Even former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and her son and BJP MP Dushyant Singh attended the same party which Kapoor attended as a guest. The duo had met Kapoor in Lucknow but they tested negative for the COVID-19. However, both of them will continue to be in isolation for 15 days. Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has left the sporting calendar shattered with every major tournaments and leagues getting either postponed or cancelled. Several question marks are being raised on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as Canada on Monday became the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event due to coronavirus pandemic.

South Africa cricket team stayed in same Lucknow hotel as Kanika Kapoor: Report

England pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-injures-england-cricketer-rory-burns-271899">James Anderson</a> has been ruled out of the remaining Test matches against South Africa due to an injury.

The bowler had sustained a left rib injury during the second Test between the two countries at Cape Town.

"Anderson felt tightness and discomfort at the end of the morning session during day five and as a result, he was able to bowl just eight overs in the day," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-meghan-markle-quit-royal-front-line-in-shock-move-273083">England</a> Cricket Board (ECB) said in a statement.

In the second match against Proteas, the pacer finished with the figures of 2-23 in the second innings.

Now, the 37-year-old will be returning to the United Kingdom in the next few days.

England managed to defeat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-england-by-107-runs-in-first-test-270868">South Africa</a> by 189 runs in the second Test to level the four-match series.

Both sides will now lock in the third Test, slated to begin from January 16.

England pacer James Anderson has been ruled out of the remaining Test matches against South Africa due to an injury. The bowler had sustained a left rib injury during the second Test between the two countries at Cape Town.

England pacer James Anderson has been ruled out of the remaining Test matches against South Africa due to an injury. The bowler had sustained a left rib injury during the second Test between the two countries at Cape Town. "Anderson felt tightness and discomfort at the end of the morning session during day five and as a result, he was able to bowl just eight overs in the day," England Cricket Board (ECB) said in a statement. In the second match against Proteas, the pacer finished with the figures of 2-23 in the second innings. Now, the 37-year-old will be returning to the United Kingdom in the next few days. England managed to defeat South Africa by 189 runs in the second Test to level the four-match series. Both sides will now lock in the third Test, slated to begin from January 16.

James Anderson ruled out of Test series against South Africa

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-stokes-and-broad-bicker-as-england-end-first-test-with-a-loss-270971">Ben Stokes</a> took the last three wickets as England subdued a stubborn South Africa to win a thrilling second test by 189 runs late on day five on Tuesday, their first victory at Newlands since 1957.

Quinton <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-de-kock-leads-south-africa-fightback-against-england-270522">de Kock</a> and Rassie van der Dussen had frustrated England for 44 overs before Stokes provided late drama to finish the match with 8.2 overs to spare and level the four-match series.

The win will be especially pleasing for England for the way they stuck to their task on a flat fifth-day wicket, with Stokes's superb burst earning the all-rounder figures of 3-35.

"A great day's play and a great test match," England seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-anderson-and-stuart-broad-key-to-ashes-glory-says-harmison-239049">Stuart Broad</a> told Sky Sports. "We had to work incredibly hard, we knew we were going to have to do that.

"It was incredible discipline from South Africa throughout the day but we kept saying one bit of magic.

"We set some funky fields. One breakthrough and we could apply some pressure. You need a lot of character and skill to chase 10 wickets. We are proud of taking our chances."

Chasing a test record 438 to win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-de-kock-leads-south-africa-fightback-against-england-270522">South Africa</a> looked relatively comfortable as they reached 237 for five with 26 overs remaining in the match.

For the second time in the innings, however, a key man gave his wicket away. De Kock (50) attempted to pull a dragged down delivery from part-time leg spinner Joe Denly and succeeded only in picking out Zak Crawley at mid-wicket.

It was an unnecessary stroke that opened the door for England and when Broad removed the obdurate Van der Dussen (17 from 140 balls), it was well and truly ajar.

Stokes accounted for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-england-by-107-runs-in-first-test-270868">Dwaine Pretorius</a> and Anrich Nortje in successive balls, both caught at slip, and sealed the victory in front of an ecstatic Barmy Army when Vernon Philander was caught fending a lifting delivery to Ollie Pope.

South Africa had given themselves a chance with some stern resistance, not least from debutant opener Pieter Malan who lasted 288 balls for his 84.

But England looked on course for victory at lunch after grabbing the key wicket of South Africa captain Faf du Plessis (19), who will be disappointed with his shot selection as he tried to take on spinner Dom Bess with a powerful sweep and picked out Denly at square leg.

"The boys fought very hard. They <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-archer-may-miss-test-against-south-africa-271563">bowled</a> really well and congrats to them," De Kock said.

"Obviously we tried to push them as far as we can. Unfortunately, we fell just short. I was disappointed because we had a good partnership going and I smoked one straight to a fielder."

South Africa won the first test in Pretoria by 107 runs.

The third match in the four-test series starts in Port Elizabeth on January&nbsp;16.

Ben Stokes took the last three wickets as England subdued a stubborn South Africa to win a thrilling second test by 189 runs late on day five on Tuesday, their first victory at Newlands since 1957.

Ben Stokes took the last three wickets as England subdued a stubborn South Africa to win a thrilling second test by 189 runs late on day five on Tuesday, their first victory at Newlands since 1957. Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen had frustrated England for 44 overs before Stokes provided late drama to finish the match with 8.2 overs to spare and level the four-match series. The win will be especially pleasing for England for the way they stuck to their task on a flat fifth-day wicket, with Stokes's superb burst earning the all-rounder figures of 3-35. "A great day's play and a great test match," England seamer Stuart Broad told Sky Sports. "We had to work incredibly hard, we knew we were going to have to do that. "It was incredible discipline from South Africa throughout the day but we kept saying one bit of magic. "We set some funky fields. One breakthrough and we could apply some pressure. You need a lot of character and skill to chase 10 wickets. We are proud of taking our chances." Chasing a test record 438 to win, South Africa looked relatively comfortable as they reached 237 for five with 26 overs remaining in the match. For the second time in the innings, however, a key man gave his wicket away. De Kock (50) attempted to pull a dragged down delivery from part-time leg spinner Joe Denly and succeeded only in picking out Zak Crawley at mid-wicket. It was an unnecessary stroke that opened the door for England and when Broad removed the obdurate Van der Dussen (17 from 140 balls), it was well and truly ajar. Stokes accounted for Dwaine Pretorius and Anrich Nortje in successive balls, both caught at slip, and sealed the victory in front of an ecstatic Barmy Army when Vernon Philander was caught fending a lifting delivery to Ollie Pope. South Africa had given themselves a chance with some stern resistance, not least from debutant opener Pieter Malan who lasted 288 balls for his 84. But England looked on course for victory at lunch after grabbing the key wicket of South Africa captain Faf du Plessis (19), who will be disappointed with his shot selection as he tried to take on spinner Dom Bess with a powerful sweep and picked out Denly at square leg. "The boys fought very hard. They bowled really well and congrats to them," De Kock said. "Obviously we tried to push them as far as we can. Unfortunately, we fell just short. I was disappointed because we had a good partnership going and I smoked one straight to a fielder." South Africa won the first test in Pretoria by 107 runs. The third match in the four-test series starts in Port Elizabeth on January 16.

Cricket: Inspired Stokes seals dramatic England victory

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 African Dale Steyn, one of the great fast bowlers of the modern era, on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket in a bid to extend his longevity in the shorter forms of the game.

Steyn, who made his international debut against England in 2004 and last played a Test in February against Sri Lanka, is still contracted in the white-ball form of the game for the 2019/20 season and therefore remains available for South Africa in one-day internationals and T20s.

"Today I walk away from a format of the game I love so much," said the 36-year-old Steyn, his country's leading Test wicket-taker of all time and one of the top 10 in the history of the game.

"In my opinion Test cricket is the best version of this game. It tests you mentally, physically, emotionally. It's terrible to consider never playing another Test again but what's more terrifying is the thought of never playing again at all.

"So I will be focusing on ODIs and T20s for the rest of my career to maximise my full potential and ensure my longevity in this sport... I look forward to continuing to play for the Proteas in the shorter formats."

Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive Thabang Moroe hailed Steyn as "undoubtedly one of the all-time greats of cricket".

"He has been one of the standout fast bowlers in world cricket. He has led the South African attack brilliantly and has set the standard for our future generations to follow," said a "saddened" Moroe.

"More than that he has been a wonderful mentor to our next generation of speedsters."

South African Dale Steyn, one of the great fast bowlers of the modern era, on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket in a bid to extend his longevity in the shorter forms of the game.

South African Dale Steyn, one of the great fast bowlers of the modern era, on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket in a bid to extend his longevity in the shorter forms of the game. Steyn, who made his international debut against England in 2004 and last played a Test in February against Sri Lanka, is still contracted in the white-ball form of the game for the 2019/20 season and therefore remains available for South Africa in one-day internationals and T20s. "Today I walk away from a format of the game I love so much," said the 36-year-old Steyn, his country's leading Test wicket-taker of all time and one of the top 10 in the history of the game. "In my opinion Test cricket is the best version of this game. It tests you mentally, physically, emotionally. It's terrible to consider never playing another Test again but what's more terrifying is the thought of never playing again at all. "So I will be focusing on ODIs and T20s for the rest of my career to maximise my full potential and ensure my longevity in this sport... I look forward to continuing to play for the Proteas in the shorter formats." Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive Thabang Moroe hailed Steyn as "undoubtedly one of the all-time greats of cricket". "He has been one of the standout fast bowlers in world cricket. He has led the South African attack brilliantly and has set the standard for our future generations to follow," said a "saddened" Moroe. "More than that he has been a wonderful mentor to our next generation of speedsters."

South African pacer Dale Steyn retires from Test cricket

Former South African cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ab+de+villiers">AB de Villers</a> has reacted&nbsp;on Faf du Plessis-led team's disappointing start in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, which is going on in England and Wales.&nbsp;

South Africa were beaten by six wickets by India on Wednesday and the defeart left the side with a massive task if they are to get through to the semi-finals.&nbsp;

The team was beaten in the tournament opener by England on Thursday and were then upset by Bangladesh on Sunday.&nbsp;

Former South African skipper took to Twitter and extended his support for the team, he wrote, "All that's important is that we should all focus on supporting the team at the World Cup."

"There is a long way to go and I believe the boys can still go all the way #ProteaFire," ABD added.&nbsp;

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All that’s important is that we should all focus on supporting the team at the World Cup. There is a long way to go and I believe the boys can still go all the way <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProteaFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProteaFire</a>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1136564783686279168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since.&nbsp;

He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand.&nbsp;

There have been reports that de <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-regrets-south-africa-on-turning-down-ab-de-villiers-approach-224972">Villiers offered the team management</a> to come out of his international retirement to participate in the Cricket World Cup 2019.

The offer, however, was denied by Cricket South Africa with any "regret".&nbsp;

Former South African cricketer AB de Villers has reacted on Faf du Plessis-led team's disappointing start in the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is going on in England and Wales.

Former South African cricketer AB de Villers has reacted on Faf du Plessis-led team's disappointing start in the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is going on in England and Wales. South Africa were beaten by six wickets by India on Wednesday and the defeart left the side with a massive task if they are to get through to the semi-finals. The team was beaten in the tournament opener by England on Thursday and were then upset by Bangladesh on Sunday. Former South African skipper took to Twitter and extended his support for the team, he wrote, "All that's important is that we should all focus on supporting the team at the World Cup." "There is a long way to go and I believe the boys can still go all the way #ProteaFire," ABD added. All that’s important is that we should all focus on supporting the team at the World Cup. There is a long way to go and I believe the boys can still go all the way #ProteaFire — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) June 6, 2019 × De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since. He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand. There have been reports that de Villiers offered the team management to come out of his international retirement to participate in the Cricket World Cup 2019. The offer, however, was denied by Cricket South Africa with any "regret".

AB de Villiers reacts on South Africa's poor start in World Cup

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-offered-to-come-out-of-retirement-for-world-cup-224906">retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available</a> for the Cricket World Cup in England.

South Africa have lost all three of their games at the tournament, largely because of a soft middle-order that has missed the quality of one of the world's premier batsmen.

But Zondi said an approach by de Villiers to come out of international retirement for the World Cup had come 24 hours before South Africa were due to announce their final squad, and was rejected out of hand.

"At no point in the year that he had retired did he make himself available for selection," Zondi said in a CSA statement on Thursday.

"It was no option when I received the news on the day of the squad announcement, our squad was finalised and confirmed.

"AB is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, but above all else, we have to stay true to our morals and principles, there is no regret in the decision."

There would also have been a feeling of opportunism on behalf of de Villiers, who had skipped South Africa's build-up to the event, but then sought to be part of the party at the last minute.

"I pleaded with AB de Villiers not to retire in 2018," Zondi added. "Although there was a perception that he was picking and choosing when to play – which was not true – I did give him the option to plan and monitor his season to get him to the World Cup fresh and in a good space.

"We made it clear that he would have to play during the home tours against Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be considered for selection, instead he signed to play in the Pakistan and Bangladesh Premier Leagues respectively.

"He turned down the offer and said he was at peace with his decision to retire."

Zondi admitted that de Villiers' request for inclusion had come as a surprise, and they owed it to other players in the squad who had worked towards being part of the World Cup to stick with them.

"For (captain) Faf du Plessis and (coach) Ottis Gibson to share AB's desire to be included in the squad on the day we announced our World Cup squad on April 18 was a shock to all of us," Zondi said.

"AB left a big vacuum when he retired, we had a year to find players at franchise level to fill the gap. We had players who put in the hard work, who put up their hands and deserved to be given the opportunity to go to the World Cup.

"The decision was based on principle; we had to be fair to the team, the selection panel, our franchise system and players."

De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since. He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand.

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England.

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England. South Africa have lost all three of their games at the tournament, largely because of a soft middle-order that has missed the quality of one of the world's premier batsmen. But Zondi said an approach by de Villiers to come out of international retirement for the World Cup had come 24 hours before South Africa were due to announce their final squad, and was rejected out of hand. "At no point in the year that he had retired did he make himself available for selection," Zondi said in a CSA statement on Thursday. "It was no option when I received the news on the day of the squad announcement, our squad was finalised and confirmed. "AB is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, but above all else, we have to stay true to our morals and principles, there is no regret in the decision." There would also have been a feeling of opportunism on behalf of de Villiers, who had skipped South Africa's build-up to the event, but then sought to be part of the party at the last minute. "I pleaded with AB de Villiers not to retire in 2018," Zondi added. "Although there was a perception that he was picking and choosing when to play – which was not true – I did give him the option to plan and monitor his season to get him to the World Cup fresh and in a good space. "We made it clear that he would have to play during the home tours against Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be considered for selection, instead he signed to play in the Pakistan and Bangladesh Premier Leagues respectively. "He turned down the offer and said he was at peace with his decision to retire." Zondi admitted that de Villiers' request for inclusion had come as a surprise, and they owed it to other players in the squad who had worked towards being part of the World Cup to stick with them. "For (captain) Faf du Plessis and (coach) Ottis Gibson to share AB's desire to be included in the squad on the day we announced our World Cup squad on April 18 was a shock to all of us," Zondi said. "AB left a big vacuum when he retired, we had a year to find players at franchise level to fill the gap. We had players who put in the hard work, who put up their hands and deserved to be given the opportunity to go to the World Cup. "The decision was based on principle; we had to be fair to the team, the selection panel, our franchise system and players." De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since. He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand.

'No regrets': South Africa on turning down AB de Villiers' comeback offer

Former South African cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ab+de+villiers">AB de Villiers</a> had offered the team management to come out of his international retirement to participate in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>.

However, the offer was denied as the selectors had already finalised the 15-member squad for the World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales.&nbsp;

De Villiers made the offer 24 hours before the final squad was announced, reported ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

The report further added that de Villiers approached South Africa's captain Faf du Plessis, head coach Ottis Gibson but his request was "not even considered".&nbsp;

The relevance of this report became significant after the Proteas have suffered their third consecutive loss in the World Cup.&nbsp;

South Africa lost to hosts England by 104 runs, then slipped to a 21-run loss to Bangladesh and on Wednesday, they were defeated by India&nbsp;by six wickets.&nbsp;

Last year in May, AB De Villiers<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twitterati-raise-concern-over-ab-de-villiers-retirement-decision--139217"> announced his retirement</a> via a video post on his Twitter account.&nbsp;

He had said that he is 'tired'&nbsp;and is the right time for him to hang his boots.

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers had offered the team management to come out of his international retirement to participate in the Cricket World Cup 2019.

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers had offered the team management to come out of his international retirement to participate in the Cricket World Cup 2019. However, the offer was denied as the selectors had already finalised the 15-member squad for the World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales. De Villiers made the offer 24 hours before the final squad was announced, reported ESPNcricinfo. The report further added that de Villiers approached South Africa's captain Faf du Plessis, head coach Ottis Gibson but his request was "not even considered". The relevance of this report became significant after the Proteas have suffered their third consecutive loss in the World Cup. South Africa lost to hosts England by 104 runs, then slipped to a 21-run loss to Bangladesh and on Wednesday, they were defeated by India by six wickets. Last year in May, AB De Villiers announced his retirement via a video post on his Twitter account. He had said that he is 'tired' and is the right time for him to hang his boots.

AB de Villiers offered to come out of retirement for World Cup: Reports

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-england-top-test-and-odi-rankings-after-annual-update-215324&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi3jvGW6priAhUIwI8KHYXKD0Y4ChAWMAh6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0IXY23VpZIaMecW8IwXCZQ">ICC </a>International Panel of Match Referees.

The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games.

"To be selected in the international panel by the ICC is a huge honour for me as it opens up new avenues. I have had a long career as a cricketer in India and also as a Match Referee. I hope to put my experience both as a player and as a match official to good use on the international circuit," Lakshmi said.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the ICC, officials at the BCCI, my seniors in the cricketing circuit, my family and colleagues who have supported me over the years. I hope to live up to their expectations by doing my job to the best of my ability," she added.

Following close on the heels of Claire Polosak, who earlier this month became the first ever woman umpire to stand in a men's ODI, Lakshmi will be eligible to referee international games with immediate effect.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/meet-first-woman-umpire-to-stand-in-mens-odi-213896&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7yMvT6priAhXJM48KHcsWDFMQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0g7teBXWV2VJexSloQWhwK">Australia's Eloise Sheridan</a> has joined compatriot Polosak on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires, taking the number of women on that panel to an unprecedented eight.

Sheridan was the reserve umpire for two matches in the Men's Big Bash League 2018-19 and umpired four matches in the Women's Big Bash League the same year.

In October 2018, she became the first woman in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/humble-aussies-head-to-gallipoli-for-world-cup-inspiration-217745&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizvey36priAhVU6nMBHeaPCSQQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rgbDdWu96Zc4qjCdvB_6W">Australia </a>to umpire a men's first-grade Premier Cricket final.

"As a player, cricket allowed me to travel, meet wonderful people and share a mutual love for the game. It is great now to be able to continue my involvement in cricket in a different role and give something back to the game that has been such a big part of my life. I couldn`t take up opportunities like this without the continued support of the South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia, as well as my very understanding partner," Sheridan said.

Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Shivani Mishra, Sue Redfern, Mary Waldron, and Jacqueline Williams are the other women officials on the panel.

The first woman on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires was Kathy Cross, who retired last year.

Meanwhile, Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees said, "We welcome Lakshmi and Eloise to our panels, which is an important step forward in our commitment to encouraging women officials. It is heartening to see their progress and I am sure many more women will be inspired to follow their example. I wish them all the best for a long and enjoyable career."

"We are committed to ensuring greater gender parity among our officials, but all appointments are made purely on merit. The elevation is as a result of a thorough evaluation process that identifies the most talented match officials breaking through to an international level. It is pleasing that through consistently high performance we are able to add more women to our panels," Griffith added.

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games.

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games. "To be selected in the international panel by the ICC is a huge honour for me as it opens up new avenues. I have had a long career as a cricketer in India and also as a Match Referee. I hope to put my experience both as a player and as a match official to good use on the international circuit," Lakshmi said. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the ICC, officials at the BCCI, my seniors in the cricketing circuit, my family and colleagues who have supported me over the years. I hope to live up to their expectations by doing my job to the best of my ability," she added. Following close on the heels of Claire Polosak, who earlier this month became the first ever woman umpire to stand in a men's ODI, Lakshmi will be eligible to referee international games with immediate effect. Australia's Eloise Sheridan has joined compatriot Polosak on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires, taking the number of women on that panel to an unprecedented eight. Sheridan was the reserve umpire for two matches in the Men's Big Bash League 2018-19 and umpired four matches in the Women's Big Bash League the same year. In October 2018, she became the first woman in Australia to umpire a men's first-grade Premier Cricket final. "As a player, cricket allowed me to travel, meet wonderful people and share a mutual love for the game. It is great now to be able to continue my involvement in cricket in a different role and give something back to the game that has been such a big part of my life. I couldn`t take up opportunities like this without the continued support of the South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia, as well as my very understanding partner," Sheridan said. Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Shivani Mishra, Sue Redfern, Mary Waldron, and Jacqueline Williams are the other women officials on the panel. The first woman on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires was Kathy Cross, who retired last year. Meanwhile, Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees said, "We welcome Lakshmi and Eloise to our panels, which is an important step forward in our commitment to encouraging women officials. It is heartening to see their progress and I am sure many more women will be inspired to follow their example. I wish them all the best for a long and enjoyable career." "We are committed to ensuring greater gender parity among our officials, but all appointments are made purely on merit. The elevation is as a result of a thorough evaluation process that identifies the most talented match officials breaking through to an international level. It is pleasing that through consistently high performance we are able to add more women to our panels," Griffith added.

Ex-Indian cricketer GS Lakshmi becomes first female ICC match referee

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said.

South Africa's World Cup adventures have ended prematurely in unfortunate circumstances on numerous occasions earning them the 'chokers' tag at the 50-over event.

Ranked fourth in ODIs, Faf du Plessis' side, however, have not lost a 50-over series in the last 12 months, winning home and away against Sri Lanka, in Australia, and at home to Pakistan and Zimbabwe.

All of it convinces Steyn that the team could break their World Cup duck this time.

"We're going with good expectations," Steyn told reporters ahead of the Royal Challengers Bangalore's IPL match in Kolkata.

"If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players."

South Africa in the past fell foul of an unfair rain rule, paid for miscalculating the Duckworth–Lewis run-rate requirement, and suffered comical run outs to crash out of the competition.

Four years ago, they fell short in a thrilling semi-final when New Zealand's Grant Elliott hit Steyn for a six off the penultimate ball of the match to seal victory.

Steyn, who has taken 196 wickets in 125 ODIs, showered rich praise on fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and pinned hopes on the 23-year-old to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the future.

"We're led by Faf, who's been in fantastic form lately. And in the Indian Premier League, Imran Tahir has been right up there in terms of wickets," said Steyn, who is hoping to make South Africa's 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 tournament.

"From Quinton de Kock all the way down to number 11, they're all match-winners. We just need to go there and hope a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament.

"You look at KG (Rabada), he's been bowling exceptionally well. Kagiso is a wunderkind. Just hope he continues that kind of form."

South Africa open their World Cup against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said.

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said. South Africa's World Cup adventures have ended prematurely in unfortunate circumstances on numerous occasions earning them the 'chokers' tag at the 50-over event. Ranked fourth in ODIs, Faf du Plessis' side, however, have not lost a 50-over series in the last 12 months, winning home and away against Sri Lanka, in Australia, and at home to Pakistan and Zimbabwe. All of it convinces Steyn that the team could break their World Cup duck this time. "We're going with good expectations," Steyn told reporters ahead of the Royal Challengers Bangalore's IPL match in Kolkata. "If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players." South Africa in the past fell foul of an unfair rain rule, paid for miscalculating the Duckworth–Lewis run-rate requirement, and suffered comical run outs to crash out of the competition. Four years ago, they fell short in a thrilling semi-final when New Zealand's Grant Elliott hit Steyn for a six off the penultimate ball of the match to seal victory. Steyn, who has taken 196 wickets in 125 ODIs, showered rich praise on fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and pinned hopes on the 23-year-old to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the future. "We're led by Faf, who's been in fantastic form lately. And in the Indian Premier League, Imran Tahir has been right up there in terms of wickets," said Steyn, who is hoping to make South Africa's 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 tournament. "From Quinton de Kock all the way down to number 11, they're all match-winners. We just need to go there and hope a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament. "You look at KG (Rabada), he's been bowling exceptionally well. Kagiso is a wunderkind. Just hope he continues that kind of form." South Africa open their World Cup against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa can end World Cup agony: Dale Steyn

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 captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

Sri Lanka became the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-defy-the-odds-to-claim-historic-test-series-win-199197">first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa</a> and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

"It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters.

"You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket.

"We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why."

South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings.

The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests.

South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July.

Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss.

"There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said.

"We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors.

"When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface."

World Cup

The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England.

"There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said.

"If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control.

"The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup."

South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world. Sri Lanka became the first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday. "It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters. "You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket. "We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why." South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings. The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests. South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July. Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss. "There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said. "We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors. "When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface." World Cup The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England. "There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said. "If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control. "The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup." South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis bemused by team's loss to Sri Lanka

Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-in-racial-abuse-row-under-icc-lens-192295">racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed</a> against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets.&nbsp;

The incident happened in the 37th over of South Africa's run chase when Pakistan's wicket-keeper Sarfraz made inappropriate comments while keeping the stumps.&nbsp;

Sarfraz passed comments in Urdu, he said, "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj (Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What have you got her to say for you today)?"

The right-handed batsman Raja, who was the commentator of the match, released a video on his YouTube channel "Ramiz Speaks" and spoke about the incident.&nbsp;

He said, "Racial slurs are completely unacceptable. It's good that Sarfraz has apologised."&nbsp;

He suggested that Sarfraz should not play the next match because it will create unwanted pressure on the entire team.&nbsp;

When the incident happened, Ramiz refrained from translating the comments to Urdu saying that it is an uncouth way of commentary.&nbsp;

He explained, "Translating every abuse, comment or racial slur in an unintelligent commentary."&nbsp;

"I stretched myself and translated the funny parts from Urdu to English but can be doing this every time."&nbsp;

He also mentioned, "Now, I have decided that I m not going to translate anything from Urdu to English, will stick to English commentary only."&nbsp;

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Pakistan and South Africa will play the next one-day of a five-match series at Centurion on January 25.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-neither-endorses-nor-supports-sarfraz-ahmeds-racist-remarks-192559">expressed regret over the comments</a> that were caught on the stump microphone, stating that PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence.&nbsp;

The PCB also said that such incidents underline the role of educational training and it will work towards providing it.&nbsp;

Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets.

Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets. The incident happened in the 37th over of South Africa's run chase when Pakistan's wicket-keeper Sarfraz made inappropriate comments while keeping the stumps. Sarfraz passed comments in Urdu, he said, "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj (Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What have you got her to say for you today)?" The right-handed batsman Raja, who was the commentator of the match, released a video on his YouTube channel "Ramiz Speaks" and spoke about the incident. He said, "Racial slurs are completely unacceptable. It's good that Sarfraz has apologised." He suggested that Sarfraz should not play the next match because it will create unwanted pressure on the entire team. When the incident happened, Ramiz refrained from translating the comments to Urdu saying that it is an uncouth way of commentary. He explained, "Translating every abuse, comment or racial slur in an unintelligent commentary." "I stretched myself and translated the funny parts from Urdu to English but can be doing this every time." He also mentioned, "Now, I have decided that I m not going to translate anything from Urdu to English, will stick to English commentary only." Watch the show: × Pakistan and South Africa will play the next one-day of a five-match series at Centurion on January 25. Pakistan Cricket Board has expressed regret over the comments that were caught on the stump microphone, stating that PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence. The PCB also said that such incidents underline the role of educational training and it will work towards providing it.

Ramiz Raja explains why he didn't translate Sarfraz Ahmed's racist remarks during commentary

Australia captain Aaron Finch said relieving pace spearhead Mitchell Starc of new ball duties in the opening one-day international against South Africa was an attempt to snap his team's horror run of losses, albeit one that had backfired.

Eyebrows were raised when Nathan Coulter-Nile opened the bowling with Josh Hazlewood in Sunday's series-opener in Perth, breaking Starc's three-year streak of opening the bowling in internationals.

The ploy was quickly shelved when Coulter-Nile was hammered for 16 runs in his first over, and South Africa's batsmen easily mowed down the hosts' paltry 152 to win by six wickets.

"We'd planned to go in with Coults (Coulter-Nile) and Josh (Hazlewood) with the new ball," Finch said after Australia lost by six wickets.

"It didn't work out for Coults in the first over today, then we went to Starcy pretty quick.

"It's just a tactical thing to be honest. Sixteen out of 18 losses in a row, 17 out of 19 now, we're looking for something to try, to try some new things, something different.

"If you keep doing the same thing over and over it's the definition of insanity, isn't it?"

The bowlers were hardly to blame for Australia's humiliation in their first match of the home summer, having been set a thankless task to defend 152 by the batsmen at the new Perth stadium.

With former captain Steve Smith and vice captain David Warner still serving ball-tampering bans, Australia were given another harsh reminder of their threadbare batting stocks, with their top six combining for 65 runs.

The loss came less than a week after a scathing cultural review into governing body&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Australia which forced chairman David Peever resign amid fierce reaction.

Finch, who replaced Tim Paine as skipper after the wicketkeeper led Australia to a 5-0 whitewash defeat away to England, said confidence was low but said they could turn it around in time for their World Cup defence in England in seven months.

"When guys are not performing as well as they can do, there’s always going to be a bit of doubt," he said.

"But you're only one good shot away from feeling on top of the world again. I think it’s about understanding it’s not all doom and gloom."

The second match of the three-day series is in Adelaide on Friday.

Australia captain Aaron Finch said relieving pace spearhead Mitchell Starc of new ball duties in the opening one-day international against South Africa was an attempt to snap his team's horror run of losses, albeit one that had backfired.

Australia captain Aaron Finch said relieving pace spearhead Mitchell Starc of new ball duties in the opening one-day international against South Africa was an attempt to snap his team's horror run of losses, albeit one that had backfired. Eyebrows were raised when Nathan Coulter-Nile opened the bowling with Josh Hazlewood in Sunday's series-opener in Perth, breaking Starc's three-year streak of opening the bowling in internationals. The ploy was quickly shelved when Coulter-Nile was hammered for 16 runs in his first over, and South Africa's batsmen easily mowed down the hosts' paltry 152 to win by six wickets. "We'd planned to go in with Coults (Coulter-Nile) and Josh (Hazlewood) with the new ball," Finch said after Australia lost by six wickets. "It didn't work out for Coults in the first over today, then we went to Starcy pretty quick. "It's just a tactical thing to be honest. Sixteen out of 18 losses in a row, 17 out of 19 now, we're looking for something to try, to try some new things, something different. "If you keep doing the same thing over and over it's the definition of insanity, isn't it?" The bowlers were hardly to blame for Australia's humiliation in their first match of the home summer, having been set a thankless task to defend 152 by the batsmen at the new Perth stadium. With former captain Steve Smith and vice captain David Warner still serving ball-tampering bans, Australia were given another harsh reminder of their threadbare batting stocks, with their top six combining for 65 runs. The loss came less than a week after a scathing cultural review into governing body Cricket Australia which forced chairman David Peever resign amid fierce reaction. Finch, who replaced Tim Paine as skipper after the wicketkeeper led Australia to a 5-0 whitewash defeat away to England, said confidence was low but said they could turn it around in time for their World Cup defence in England in seven months. "When guys are not performing as well as they can do, there’s always going to be a bit of doubt," he said. "But you're only one good shot away from feeling on top of the world again. I think it’s about understanding it’s not all doom and gloom." The second match of the three-day series is in Adelaide on Friday.

Aaron Finch, says off-field ructions causing 'doubts'

South African batting star AB de Villiers was on Monday named among 12 leading players for South Africa's new Mzansi Super League Twenty20 tournament.

Six South African and six overseas players were named as marquee players at a Cricket South Africa media briefing. Six teams will be competing for their services in a draft in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

England one-day captain Eoin Morgan and fellow England players Jason Roy and Dawid Malan will join West Indians Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo and Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan as the leading overseas players.

Six teams will be competing for their services in a draft which will take place in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

De Villiers, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, heads the list of designated South African players. He will represent the Tshwane Spartans, who will be based at his long-time home ground in Centurion.

National captain Faf du Plessis will play for the Paarl Rocks team in the Cape Winelands, Hashim Amla for Durban Heat, JP Duminy for Cape Town Blitz, Kagiso Rabada for Jozi Stars in Johannesburg and Imran Tahir for the Port-Elizabeth based Nelson Mandela Bay Giants.

The league, named after a colloquial term for South Africa, will run from November 15 to December 16.

Cricket South Africa chief executive Thabang Moroe said there had been a big response from players from around the world who wanted to be included in the league.

"We have received applications from over 200 top international players who expressed interest in playing in this inaugural tournament and will have their names in the hat ahead of the player draft process," said Moroe.

South Africa's first attempt at staging a major Twenty20 tournament collapsed in 2017, leading to the axing of then chief executive Haroon Lorgat and a loss of an estimated $14 million.

It appeared doubtful that the concept would be revived in time for the current season before CSA announced on September 8 that it would go ahead.

South Africa's national broadcaster, SABC, has been granted the rights to televise the tournament.

South African batting star AB de Villiers was on Monday named among 12 leading players for South Africa's new Mzansi Super League Twenty20 tournament. Six South African and six overseas players were named as marquee players at a Cricket South Africa media briefing.

South African batting star AB de Villiers was on Monday named among 12 leading players for South Africa's new Mzansi Super League Twenty20 tournament. Six South African and six overseas players were named as marquee players at a Cricket South Africa media briefing. Six teams will be competing for their services in a draft in Johannesburg on Wednesday. England one-day captain Eoin Morgan and fellow England players Jason Roy and Dawid Malan will join West Indians Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo and Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan as the leading overseas players. Six teams will be competing for their services in a draft which will take place in Johannesburg on Wednesday. De Villiers, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, heads the list of designated South African players. He will represent the Tshwane Spartans, who will be based at his long-time home ground in Centurion. National captain Faf du Plessis will play for the Paarl Rocks team in the Cape Winelands, Hashim Amla for Durban Heat, JP Duminy for Cape Town Blitz, Kagiso Rabada for Jozi Stars in Johannesburg and Imran Tahir for the Port-Elizabeth based Nelson Mandela Bay Giants. The league, named after a colloquial term for South Africa, will run from November 15 to December 16. Cricket South Africa chief executive Thabang Moroe said there had been a big response from players from around the world who wanted to be included in the league. "We have received applications from over 200 top international players who expressed interest in playing in this inaugural tournament and will have their names in the hat ahead of the player draft process," said Moroe. South Africa's first attempt at staging a major Twenty20 tournament collapsed in 2017, leading to the axing of then chief executive Haroon Lorgat and a loss of an estimated $14 million. It appeared doubtful that the concept would be revived in time for the current season before CSA announced on September 8 that it would go ahead. South Africa's national broadcaster, SABC, has been granted the rights to televise the tournament.

De Villiers included in draft for South African T20 league

South African hero AB de Villiers admitted to nerves and battling a fear of failure as he produced a record-setting innings that led to a colossal win over New Zealand on Saturday.

Only a &quot;deep, deep hunger to succeed,&quot; helped him overcome his emotions to lead his side to a 159-run win in the third one-day international in Wellington to go 2-1 up in the five-match series.

De Villiers&#39; 85 off 80 balls pulled South Africa out of a middle-order slump during a match-changing innings in which he became the fastest players to reach 9,000 ODI runs.

South Africa eventually reached 271 for eight in their 50 overs before Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo led a bowling attack that rolled New Zealand for 112 in 32.2 overs.

&quot;I was nervous walking out especially when we started losing a few wickets. Looking up at the scoreboard I thought &#39;oh my word we&#39;re looking at 160-180 if we get bowled out&#39; which I don&#39;t think would have been enough,&quot; he said.

&quot;There are lots of doubts walking out no matter what your record is.

&quot;But I had a feeling it was going to be important to bat through and to be there at the end.&quot;

As South Africa produced an emphatic response after losing to New Zealand in the second match on Wednesday, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was left to wonder how his side could be outsmarted in home conditions.

&quot;They certainly deserved the win, they outplayed us,&quot; he said.

&quot;They were able to get a bit of seam movement. Not only do you get a bit of assistance but you do have to put the ball in the right area and they were able to do that. They bowled very well.&quot;

South Africa were keen to bat first when they won the toss and while they had their jitters de Villiers had support from Quinton de Kock (68) to give their innings some respectability.

New Zealand&#39;s reply started disastrously with openers Tom Latham (nought) and Dean Brownlie (two) gone inside three overs.

Kane Williamson, on four, should have joined them but Hashim Amla failed to grasp a regulation catch at first slip.&nbsp;

It was a short-lived reprieve, however, as Williamson struggled to 23 when he was bowled by Phehlukwayo and Ross Taylor (18) went lbw to Pretorius in the following over.

Colin de Grandhomme&#39;s unbeaten 34 and Jimmy Neesham&#39;s 13 where the only other scores in double figures as Pretorius took three for five off 32 deliveries and Phehlukwayo finished with two for 12 off 30 balls.

De Villiers milestone&nbsp;

On a wicket that looked full of runs, South African opener Amla was unable to settle and went early for seven.&nbsp;

But de Kock had no problems as he posted his fifth successive half century following innings of 55 and 109 against Sri Lanka and then 69 and 57 in the first two matches of this five-game series.

His 68 in Wellington came off 70 deliveries and included two sixes and six fours.&nbsp;

Faf du Plessis offered some support with 36 but otherwise there was little resistance until de Villiers set up the big finish supported by Wayne Parnell who added 35 at the tail.&nbsp;

When de Villiers clouted Lockie Ferguson to the boundary off the fifth ball he faced he became the fastest batsman to total 9,000 ODI runs reaching the milestone in his 205th innings.&nbsp;

The previous record was 228 held by India&#39;s Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

Of the 18 batsmen in the 9,000-plus club, de Villiers also has the best average of 54.04 and best strike rate of 100.00.&nbsp;

(AFP)

South Africa skipper AB de Villiers' revitalised hunger helped his team clinch a 2-1 edge in the ODI series Down Under

South African hero AB de Villiers admitted to nerves and battling a fear of failure as he produced a record-setting innings that led to a colossal win over New Zealand on Saturday. Only a "deep, deep hunger to succeed," helped him overcome his emotions to lead his side to a 159-run win in the third one-day international in Wellington to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. De Villiers' 85 off 80 balls pulled South Africa out of a middle-order slump during a match-changing innings in which he became the fastest players to reach 9,000 ODI runs. South Africa eventually reached 271 for eight in their 50 overs before Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo led a bowling attack that rolled New Zealand for 112 in 32.2 overs. "I was nervous walking out especially when we started losing a few wickets. Looking up at the scoreboard I thought 'oh my word we're looking at 160-180 if we get bowled out' which I don't think would have been enough," he said. "There are lots of doubts walking out no matter what your record is. "But I had a feeling it was going to be important to bat through and to be there at the end." As South Africa produced an emphatic response after losing to New Zealand in the second match on Wednesday, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was left to wonder how his side could be outsmarted in home conditions. "They certainly deserved the win, they outplayed us," he said. "They were able to get a bit of seam movement. Not only do you get a bit of assistance but you do have to put the ball in the right area and they were able to do that. They bowled very well." South Africa were keen to bat first when they won the toss and while they had their jitters de Villiers had support from Quinton de Kock (68) to give their innings some respectability. New Zealand's reply started disastrously with openers Tom Latham (nought) and Dean Brownlie (two) gone inside three overs. Kane Williamson, on four, should have joined them but Hashim Amla failed to grasp a regulation catch at first slip. It was a short-lived reprieve, however, as Williamson struggled to 23 when he was bowled by Phehlukwayo and Ross Taylor (18) went lbw to Pretorius in the following over. Colin de Grandhomme's unbeaten 34 and Jimmy Neesham's 13 where the only other scores in double figures as Pretorius took three for five off 32 deliveries and Phehlukwayo finished with two for 12 off 30 balls. De Villiers milestone On a wicket that looked full of runs, South African opener Amla was unable to settle and went early for seven. But de Kock had no problems as he posted his fifth successive half century following innings of 55 and 109 against Sri Lanka and then 69 and 57 in the first two matches of this five-game series. His 68 in Wellington came off 70 deliveries and included two sixes and six fours. Faf du Plessis offered some support with 36 but otherwise there was little resistance until de Villiers set up the big finish supported by Wayne Parnell who added 35 at the tail. When de Villiers clouted Lockie Ferguson to the boundary off the fifth ball he faced he became the fastest batsman to total 9,000 ODI runs reaching the milestone in his 205th innings. The previous record was 228 held by India's Sourav Ganguly. Of the 18 batsmen in the 9,000-plus club, de Villiers also has the best average of 54.04 and best strike rate of 100.00. (AFP)

De Villiers-led Proteas make short work of New Zealand

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