Markram named South African ODI captain

Aiden Markram, 23, has been named South African captain for the remaining five ODIs against India, starting with the second game at SuperSport Park Sunday. Markram takes over from regular captain Faf du Plessis, who suffered a broken right index finger during India's six-wicket win in the first match in Durban Thursday. Markram will be South Africa's youngest captain since Graeme Smith was appointed on a long-term basis at the age of 22 in 2003. Convener of selectors Linda Zondi said Markram's appointment was in line with a policy to develop young leaders in the squad. "It is unfortunate that we have to do this because of an injury to Faf but this is an opportunity to give Aiden a run, he fits into the goals we are trying to achieve."

4th February 2018 - Aiden Markram captaining Amla & Chandimal captaining Herath. Markram was 5 years old when Amla made FC cricket debut. Chandimal was 7 years old when Herath made FC cricket debut.

— Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) February 4, 2018

Markram has been identified as a potential future captain since he led South Africa to victory at the 2014 U-19 World Cup. He has captained South Africa A and made his full international debut during the current season, scoring 97, 15, 143 and 125 in his first four Test innings against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. He found the going tougher in the recent Test matches against India, scoring 140 runs at an average of 23.33. He has only played in two ODIs, including the Durban match. Markram said there was a good team culture and that he would be able to call on the advice of senior players. "Faf has taken me under his wing since I have been involved in this environment," he said. "We have spoken a lot and this morning at practice he was next to me and chatting about plans."