South African cricket Test captain steps down

7 January 2016"I am deeply grateful and privileged to have been the Test captain and I wish to thank
Cricket South Africa for the honour of captaining my country," said Proteas Test captain Hashim
Amla when he announced his decision yesterday to step down from the role."It was enjoyable and
indeed a great learning experience."Amla succeeded Graeme Smith in June 2014, and has since then
captained the Proteas in 14 Tests. Of these, the team won four, drew six and lost four.Watch the
press conference in which he announced his resignation, here:[embedded content]Amla said
stepping down was not an easy decision to take. "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," he explained. We respect Hashims decision and the manner in which he
thought about it and then communicated with me - CSA Chief Executive, Haroon Lorgat
Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 6, 2016New captain namedVice-captain AB de Villiers
agreed to take over the captaincy for the remainder of the Sunfoil Test against England series at
PPC Newlands."I've said this before that it is an incredible honour to captain South Africa in any
format," said De Villiers. "The captaincy has obviously come at short notice and is the realisation of a
lifelong dream."His current priority was to lead the team to a memorable series win against
England. "ThisTest 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."Amla also acknowledged the team and his fans. "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," he said. "I want to acknowledge this superb group of
people for always being there and for supporting me wholeheartedly."Hey everyone . Thanks for all
your messages and support. It means a lot.

hashim amla (@amlahash) January 6, 2016Amla fast

factsNickname: Hash Date of birth: 31 March
1983 Place of birth: Durban, South Africa Role:
Opening batsman Batting: Right-hand
batter Bowling: Leg breaks Test matches: 89 Test
runs: 6907 Test match centuries: 22 One day
internationals: 126 ODI runs: 6008 T20 matches:
30 T20 runs: 700Support from fansCricket fans
around the world have supported Amla on social
media:@amlahash All best wishes from an England
fan Hashim. Excellent batting this test.

UBF riccardo (@UBFriccardo) January 6, 2016@amlahash Captain, my captain, a legend living in

our own time! Good decision from a class act. #ProteaFire
Jax Hough (@JaxHough77) January 6, 2016@amlahash Thank you my captain.you served the nation
with pride and hope you will continue to do so.

moeketsi moleko (@olamekx) January 6,

2016Source: Cricket South Africa
http://www.southafrica.info/news/sport/h
ashim-amla-resigns-070116.htm