Faf du Plessis diagnosed with viral infection, doubtful for Boxing Day Test

The South African team will play their first ever 4-day Day and Night Test against Zimbabwe starting Boxing Day. The game, in a way, will act as a preparatory ground for the Proteas before the country hosts India across all three formats. South Africa last played a Test in early October against Bangladesh and hence finding the rhythm will be crucial for the rainbow nation before they face the numero uno Test team in the world.

However, a pressing concern ahead of the Boxing Day fixture is skipper Faf du Plessis’ fitness. The right-hander has declared that he has a “60-40” chance of playing the Test against Zimbabwe after picking up a viral infection in the week leading up to the game.

The Protea captain had been out of action since late October when he sustained a back injury against Bangladesh following which he didn’t take part in the recently concluded domestic T20 competition. Meanwhile, he underwent surgery on his troublesome shoulder and thought he was 80% ready to play last week. However, his chances have diminished because of the illness.

South Africa won’t feel du Plessis’ absence with the return of two superstars

Speaking about his progress, the 33-year-old was quoted saying on Christmas Eve, “Last week I was 80-20 for playing, probably now 60-40. My progress was really good over the last two weeks but I picked up a virus last week which has slowed me down a little bit. Right now, where we stand, trying to get to practice and see how it feels. I practiced on Saturday and there was still a bit of pain in the back and when the professionals say there is a pain in the disc, there is still a bit of risk.”

However, the South African side won’t plummet as they see the return of two of their superstars- Dale Steyn and AB De Villiers. Steyn will be returning after undergoing a shoulder injury, while the de Villiers will make a comeback after his voluntary sabbatical, which he took eyeing the 2019 World Cup.