Du Plessis could miss historic Zimbabwe Test

Faf du Plessis may not be risked for the Boxing Day Test as the South African management looks at the bigger picture.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis could miss the inaugural four-day Boxing Day day-night Test against Zimbabwe.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis could miss the inaugural four-day Boxing Day day-night Test against Zimbabwe.

Du Plessis retired on 91 in the Proteas' 200-run thumping of Bangladesh in the third one-day international at East London in October after damaging his back.

The skipper was helped off the field by David Miller and decided to undergo shoulder surgery while recovering from that setback.

READ: Du Plessis to lead South Africa in all formats

Du Plessis is closing in on a return, but South Africa team manager Mohammed Moosajee - also a doctor - said he may not be risked in the one-off Test versus Zimbabwe.

"If we reach next week and see that Faf would benefit from another week off, then we will give him that time," Moosajee said.

"We are not going to be foolish with his return, because there is a lot of cricket over the next few months."

Dean Elgar will be on standby to lead the side if Du Plessis' absence continues.