De Villers learns captaincy ropes

AB de Villiers has told South Africa fans to be patient with him as he learns the art of captaincy, warning them to “expect a few mistakes”.

The 27-year-old belatedly takes over the reins of the one-day side for the upcoming five-game series against Sri Lanka, which begins today in Paarl. De Villiers was officially named as South Africa’s limited-overs skipper back in June but he missed out on the chance to lead his side against Australia in October because of a hand injury. Now fit and ready to go - and with former skipper Graeme Smith on hand for guidance - De Villiers knows he has some learning to do.

“I’m younger and less experienced than Graeme, so expect a few mistakes,” he said. “We’re obviously different human beings and won’t be the same out on the field. I also won’t be scared to try out new things, to express a bit of flair, hopefully to the benefit of the team.

“I know I’ll have Graeme at my shoulder but he’s also said he’ll let me captain the way I want to. He won’t interfere but he’ll certainly help out when I do go a little wayward.”

All-rounder Albie Morkel is back in the South Africa squad for the first time in over a year having replaced uncapped batsman Dean Elgar, who was ruled out through injury. Seamer Rory Kleinveldt, who has played in Twenty20 Internationals but is yet to feature in the 50-over game, is in the squad but unlikely to feature.

Fast bowler Lasith Malinga, retired from the five-day game, returns for Sri Lanka as they look for a spark following their defeat in the Test series.

Also involved will be fellow quick Nuwan Kulasekara, who has been out of international action with injury since August, Upul Tharanga and Kosala Kulasekara.