May 28, 2024 08:36 (IST)
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Hashim Amla steps down as South Africa captain, AB takes over
Cape Town, Jan 6 (IBNS) Right after the second Test match against England ended in a draw here on Wednesday, South African skipper Hashim Amla stepped down from the helm to allow deputy AB de Villiers to take over.
Amla's decision shook the cricket world as his sudden decision came as a shock to most of them.
Amla was quoted as saying by Cricket South Africa website, "Naturally this decision is not an easy one but the more I think about it the more I believe I can be of greater value to the Proteas as a fully focused batsman and senior player at this time of rebuilding our team."
"I am deeply grateful and privileged to have been the Test captain and I wish to thank CSA for the honour of captaining my country. It was enjoyable and indeed a great learning experience," the 'Mighty Hash' added.
Amla took over from Greame Smith in 2014 after the latter's retirement from cricket. Then the world's number one side, under Amla's regime South Africa witnessed a low point losing the last 4 out of the 5 Test matches they have played.
Taking the baton from the prolific batsman is South Africa's ODI skipper de Villiers.
"I’ve said this before that it is an incredible honour to captain South Africa in any format. The captaincy has obviously come at short notice and is the realisation of a lifelong dream," AB said.
"At the moment my priority and focus is placed on leading this team to what can be a memorable series win against England. This Test squad is motivated and determined to turn our performances around and I’m looking forward to taking up that challenge as captain. Hashim is a good friend and close colleague and I am grateful for his support," the newly appointed captain added.
Amla also thanked his supporters, he said, "Throughout my time as captain, whether in good times or tough times, I’ve always had the full support of my team mates, coaching staff and management. I want to acknowledge this superb group of people for always being there and for supporting me wholeheartedly."
Paying tribute to Amla for his contributions, Cricket South Africa's chief Haroon Lorgat said, "We respect Hashim’s decision and the manner in which he thought about it and then communicated with me. It was consistent with his well respected personality."
Lorgat also thanked AB de Villiers for taking up the role readily.
"I want to thank AB for readily accepting the challenge of rebuilding our Test team as we seek to remain the best team in the world," Lorgat said.
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