A ball-tampering charge levelled at South African skipper Faf du Plessis continues to make headlines, with a team security guard shoving a local journalist at Adelaide airport.

Du Plessis is expected to play the third Test against Australia because a hearing won’t take place until the tourists’ legal representative arrives from South Africa. It appears unlikely that will happen before the day-night Test starts at Adelaide Oval on Thursday.

On Monday, Zunaid Wadee, who looks after the Proteas’ security, was attempting to shield Du Plessis from questions regarding the mint controversy when he physically clashed with Nine Network reporter Will Crouch.

Wadee shoved, shoulder charged and knocked a microphone from Crouch’s hands. He then forcibly shoved Crouch against a glass door as Du Plessis, smiling and giving a thumbs up, left the building.

Crouch walked away from the scrap unharmed, while Du Plessis refused to comment.

Think this Proteas trainer has been watching too much NFL. Very aggressive pass-blocking as @WillCrouch9 tries to interview @faf1307 #AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/SlAf4GgHDW — Nathan Stitt (@nathanjstitt) November 21, 2016

“Disappointed. Such provocative behaviour from reporters. Let a man walk in peace. Ask with manners n courtesy and u prob will get a response,” Proteas batsman Hashim Amla posted on Twitter.

Du Plessis, who is facing a one-Test ban, is yet to speak since being charged by the International Cricket Council after allegedly using a mint to induce swing in the second Test against Australia.

Zunaid is a security specialist who regularly travels with the Proteas. He is the “chief close protection operative” of Zans & Associates, having also worked for the President and CEO of Coca Cola, CEO of Zurich Financial Services, Chevron Texaco and Oprah.