Tsolekile earns South Africa call-up
July 11, 2012 10:20:30 UK
Mark Boucher's glittering international career has come to an inauspicious end.South Africa have called up wicketkeeper Thami Tsolekile for the tour of England to replace Mark Boucher, who has announced his retirement from the game.
Boucher was forced to call time on his career after being hit in the eye by a flying bail in a warm-up match against Somerset on Monday. He was immediately sent to hospital where he underwent surgery before announcing his retirement on Tuesday.
Don't forget all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on your mobile phone with the new and improved Mobile at bet365.
Thami has done very well with both the Lions and South Africa A for a couple of seasons.
Andrew Hudson
Although Tsolekile has been drafted into the squad, he will not play in the first Test against England, which is scheduled to begin on 19th July, as AB de Villiers will take the gloves for the series opener.
South Africa are 3.75 to win the first Test while England can be backed at 2.62 to emerge victorious and the draw is available at 2.50.
Tsolekile will then come into contention for a starting berth for the second Test, which begins on 2nd August at Headingley.
The 31-year-old has played in only three Tests but has been one of the most consistent players in South African first-class cricket.
He was handed a central contract earlier this year, with Cricket South Africa selection convener Andrew Hudson saying:
"Thami has done very well with both the Lions and South Africa A for a couple of seasons, culminating in his South African record eight catches in an innings this past week.
"With AB de Villiers also able to fill the role of wicket-keeper in the Test series it gives the tour selectors options in this important position."
View all Cricket betting