Former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis has emphasised that the time was right for him to step away from the captaincy position in order for the new coaching staff to rebuild with a fresh leader.

Du Plessis announced his resignation as captain of the Proteas in February after taking some time away from the game and after a lot of pressure on him following England’s 3-1 Test series win in South Africa.

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Wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock, who led the Proteas in the limited-overs format against England and Australia, has since been appointed the new captain for ODIs and T20Is, with CSA yet to decide who will take over as captain of the Test team.

Du Plessis, though, is optimistic about the restructuring of the Proteas’ coaching staff in the lead-up to England’s arrival in December, when Mark Boucher took over as head coach with Charl Langeveldt and Jacques Kallis brought in as assistant and consultant, respectively.

‘A new coaching staff could start the journey with someone new,’ said the 35-year-old.

‘I have a lot of value to add but the time is right to fast-track that process for them. I still love playing for the Proteas and I still love being involved with the Proteas. I still see myself adding huge value.’

Despite a testing and tough summer of cricket for the new-look Proteas camp, Du Plessis is excited about the new direction the country’s cricket is heading in and still as motivated as ever to carry his weight in the team.

‘Not at any stage did I decide that I want to go and sign deals overseas. I’m still extremely motivated and keen to play for the Proteas in all three formats. That time away from the game has made sure that the hunger is still there,’ Du Plessis said.

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