Dhaka, July 8 (IANS) AB de Villiers is set to miss the One-Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh as he will return to his country after the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a suspension notice to the South Africa 50-over skipper.
In his absence, his deputy in ODIs and Test skipper Hashim Amla will lead the Proteas. Leg spinner Eddie Leie, who debuted in the second Twenty20 International on Tuesday, will replace de Villiers, reports bdnews24.com.
The master blaster was handed a one-match suspension for maintaining a slow over-rate during their World Cup semi-final against New Zealand in March. It was his second offence within 12 months.
The first ODI against Bangladesh, which will be held in Mirpur on Friday, will be South Africa’s first since their World Cup exit in that match.
The ban will take effect for Friday’s opening ODI against Bangladesh. Following the ban, the management decided to release de Villiers from the squad for the upcoming three-match series.
“AB’s presence and contributions will be missed but we have a hectic playing schedule this season. We felt this would be a great opportunity to develop the next tier of batters during this series, like we are doing with our bowlers,” coach Russell Domingo said.
“We would also like to give him the peace of mind of being close to his wife with the imminent birth of his first born child.”