For the first time in his career middle-order batsman David Miller will have the opportunity of leading South Africa after regular captain Faf du Plessis was rested for the last two T20Is against Pakistan.


"Giving David (Miller) a leadership role is another way that we are broadening our leadership resources within our respective squads," said South Africa national selector, Linda Zondi.

"David has a wealth of experience and is a well-respected figure within the Proteas environment. The last two matches will be an opportunity for us to grow potential leaders for the future."

Du Plessis has been in a rich vein of form currently, notching scores of 78, 50 not out, 57 and 40 not out, in his last four international innings. It was his 78-run knock in the 1st T20I that set-up South Africa’s win.


Resting Du Plessis was not the only change South Africa made for the latter half of the three-match series. Seamers Kagiso Rabada and Dale Steyn have also been rested, while wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock and all-rounder JP Duminy will miss the games due to injury, according to an ICC statement.

While the Proteas are already 1-0 up in the three-match rubber, it will be interesting to see if Pakistan can take advantage of facing a relatively inexperienced hosts in the final two outings.

The second and third T20Is will be played in Johannesburg and Centurion on Sunday and Wednesday, respectively.