ENGLAND VS SOUTH AFRICA, 2017

JP Duminy released from SA squad for rest of England series

by Cricbuzz Staff • Last updated on

Duminy had been replaced with the returning Faf du Plessis in the second Test © Getty

South Africa batsman JP Duminy has reportedly been released from the squad for the last two England Tests. After making scores of 15 and 2 in the opening Test in Lord's, which South Africa lost by 211 runs, Duminy was dropped.

Duminy had made way for the returning skipper Faf du Plessis in the second Test at Trent Bridge, where the side made a fine comeback to level the series 1-1.

The left-hander has endured a tough time in whites - a six-month lull since a stroke-filled 155 against Sri Lanka in Johannesburg in January. The No.4 batsman carries an average of 32.85 - one that's not befitting a batsman playing in his position.

"He's possibly been given a longer run because you know what he presents and how he helps out with the team away from the runs. He's been the first to acknowledge that his performances have not stacked up - certainly not what we need from a No. 4 batsman," du Plessis had said while announcing Duminy's axing before the Lord's Test.

As far as cover for the batting line-up goes, South Africa have young Aiden Markram amidst them, who was recently retained in the senior squad even after du Plessis's return. Markram was initially roped in as cover for du Plessis, who missed the first Test owing to the birth of his child. When the captain returned, South Africa opted to retain Markram. The 22-year-old was set to lead South Africa A in the home tri-series, involving India and Afghanistan, but was asked to remain with the side and gain valuable experience from the senior players.

South Africa play the third Test against England at the Kennington Oval in London from July 27, before travelling to Manchester for the fourth and final Test from August 4.

More to follow...

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