Proteas opening batsman Herschelle Gibbs has been sent home after breaking a team curfew on the evening before Wednesday’s Twenty20 international against Bangladesh.
He will take no part in the three-match one-day international series against the same opponents, which starts at Potchefstroom’s Senwes Park on Friday.
The selectors have decided not to replace him in what now becomes a 13-man squad and it is likely that Justin Ontong will open the batting with Hashim Amla until such time as Graeme Smith becomes available again.
”Herschelle’s behaviour is unacceptable in the context of team discipline,” commented national coach Mickey Arthur.
Team manager Mohammed Moosajee said that in terms of his Cricket South Africa national contract Gibbs would be required to attend an alcohol rehabilitation course.
”We are not trying to punish Herschelle but rather to help him,” commented Moosajee. ”He has been under a lot of pressure lately, notably from the publicity surrounding his recent divorce. It is clear that he has developed a problem that needs to be addressed.
”Herschelle can rely on the full support of CSA to get his life back on an even keel again. He still has a lot to offer South African cricket and his many fans, but this has to be done in line with team structures and disciplines.”
Gibbs asked the media to respect his privacy at this time. — Sapa