Former batsman Hashim Amla has implored fans and critics to exercise patience with the Proteas.

A Proteas Test squad minus the recently-retired Amla and Steyn have slipped to a 2-0 series defeat during the ongoing tour of India.

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‘It’s time for rebuilding of the South African team,’ Amla was quoted as saying by the Deccan Chronicle.

‘I have enjoyed my journey with the South African team and I am really happy with my decision. It’s time for youngsters.

‘A few of us who have played for almost 10 years have walked away from the international scene. So it was always going to happen that the team will take time to rebuild.

‘If you look back, all teams go through a transitional phase and we are going through that.’

While Amla, Steyn and other Test retirees JP Duminy and fast bowler Morne Morkel are absent, the squad’s inexperience is highlighted by the uncapped Heinrich Klaasen and George Linde. Batsman Zubayr Hamza and fast bowler Anrich Nortje, meanwhile, have played just one Test each.

‘Given the backing and support and confidence of the current players, the team will find its feet again and be a quality team. As it is they are,’ added Amla.

‘International experience is such a thing that you can only get that type of knowledge after two or three years. You’ve got to afford those players the time.’

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