Hashim Amla resigns as South Africa Test captain

With AB de Villiers (88), Amla – who began the day on 64 – added 183 for the third wicket causing a lot of frustration for the England bowlers who only picked up one wicket all day.

However, the team will be led by AB de Villiers after Hashim Amla resigned from Test captaincy following the draw in the second Test at Newlands.

Amla intends to focus on his batting, which had been in the doldrums throughout 2015, but he bows out having just scored a double century.

South Africa have also named the One-Day International squad for the five-match series to be played against England after the conclusion of the Test series.

But a winless run spanning eight matches represents a new and unwanted record.

The right-hander hit 201 at Newlands to rescue South Africa from going 2-0 down in the series. “I made my decision two weeks before the first Test against England”, Amla added.

“I kind of felt someone else could do a better job”.

“I feel comfortable with my decision, knowing that I have given my best at all times and will continue to do so”.

“He still has a huge role to play in shaping the success of our team without the need for a leadership title”.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who destroyed the South African bowling by scoring 248 runs in the first innings, was adjudged man of the match.

But Steyn will have to prove his fitness ahead of the third Test starting at the Wanderers Stadium next Thursday after failing to see out his two most recent Test appearances. “At last it’s a South African captain”.

He said England’s dropping of a string of catches during South Africa’s first innings was disappointing. “It was consistent with his well respected personality”, said Cricket SA Chief Executive, Haroon Lorgat.

Amla also thanked his supporters, he said, “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”.

The 32-year old stepped down after Alastair cook’s side had battled to 159 for six on the fifth day before rain and bad light ruined any chance of a result, with the batsman de Villiers immediately announced as his replacement for the rest of the series.

Meanwhile, two of South Africa’s players have health problems.