De Villiers relishing chance to lead Proteas

De Villiers took over the mantle of the Proteas' Test captaincy on Wednesday following Hashim Amla's shock resignation after the second Test was drawn at Newlands. De Villiers will now lead the Test team in the final two matches of the series with England.

South Africa Test captain AB de Villiers

AB de Villiers will realise a lifelong dream in the third Test with England when he assumes the captaincy of South Africa.

De Villiers took over the mantle of the Proteas' Test captaincy on Wednesday following Hashim Amla's shock resignation after the second Test was drawn at Newlands.

One-day skipper De Villiers will now lead the Test team in the final two matches of the series with England, although no long-term decision on Amla's successor has yet been made.

"I've said this before that it is an incredible honour to captain South Africa in any format," he said. "The captaincy has obviously come at short notice and is the realisation of a lifelong dream.

"At the moment my priority and focus is placed on leading this team to what can be a memorable series win against England. 

"This Test squad is motivated and determined to turn our performances around and I'm looking forward to taking up that challenge as captain. 

"Hashim is a good friend and close colleague and I am grateful for his support."