Days Before #SAvAUS T20 Series, Faf du Plessis Steps Down As Captain in Both Tests, T20I

This news came as a shock to all cricket fans as South Africa's Faf du Plessis stepped down from captaincy in both Tests and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). He has quit as South Africa captain across all three formats of cricket, but will be available for Cricket South Africa (CSA).

This news hit headlines after Cricket South Africa (CSA) made Du Plessis' announcement public with a series of tweets. They also released the full statement of their outgoing skipper. "This was one of the toughest decisions to make, but I remain fully committed to supporting Quinton, Mark and my teammates as we continue to rebuild and re-align as a group," Faf du Plessis said.

Further explaining his thoughts on his decision, du Plessis said, "When I took over the leadership, I did so with the commitment to lead, perform & most importantly, to serve. As the team heads into a new direction with new leaders and a young crop of players, I feel it will be in the best interests of SA cricket to relinquish the captaincy." 

"The last season of my captaincy has been the most challenging to date as I had a lot of off-field issues that I devoted my energy towards.I have strived to lead the team with dignity and authenticity during exhilarating highs and devastating lows. I have given my everything during my tenure," he added in the statement.

The 35-year-old cricketer had earlier said that he was not looking at his future in international cricket beyond the T20 World Cup in Australia in October. "South African cricket has entered a new era. New leadership, new faces, new challenges and new strategies.  I remain committed to play in all three formats of the game for now as a player and will offer my knowledge and time to the new leaders of the team," said Du Plessis said in a statement.

Du Plessis's decision comes just days before the T20 series which will begin on February 21. Reports suggest that earlier in the day, South Africa will name their squad for the three-match T20 series. 

BREAKING!

Faf du Plessis has announced he is stepping down as South Africa captain from all formats! pic.twitter.com/ukBYGgduiX

— ICC (@ICC) February 17, 2020