South African Batsman Aiden Markram has been named South Africa’s captain for the remainder of the ODI series against India. He has been named as the new captain as the regular skipper Faf du Plessis was ruled out of the series with a finger injury, having suffered the injury in the first ODI while fielding.

However, Cricket South Africa (CS is yet to announce the captain for the succeeding T20I series. In a press release, CSA said, “We’re aware Markram is new to the setup but he’s always been part of our plans since his U-19 (captaincy). We want to have a pool of leaders.”

Aiden Markram has only played two ODIs for South Africa but finds himself pushed through the responsibility of leading the national squad in the absence of Du Plessis and AB de Villiers, who has been ruled out of at least the first three ODIs. However, Aiden has experience as a captain having led South Africa to victory in the Under-19 World Cup in 2014, as well as leading local side Titans this season.

Also read: Faf du Plessis ruled out of the series

Talking about the announcement, Markram said, “As a little boy you dream of captaining your country one day. (It’s a) super humbling experience. What happened to Faf in Durban was a freak incident. I officially heard (about me becoming captain) first thing this morning. It’s something you can’t take for granted. I enjoy captaining and it’s gonna be an additional pressure to deal with. Hopefully, it’s a good pressure.”

He further added, “I’ll keep sending messages to Faf on and off the field asking for advice. I’ll definitely consult senior players for the best interest of the side.”

Team India currently having the lead in the six-match series by 1-0, after a win in the opening ODI in Durban. They will be looking to increase their lead in the second ODI in Centurion.