Breaking News: Imran Tahir rested by South Africa for Sri lanka tour

Johannesburg, June 18 (CRICKETNMORE) South Africa have decided to rest their top-ranked bowler Imran Tahir, for the five-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in July-August. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj and left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have been included in the

"Both series are extremely important parts of Vision 2019 as we plan for next year's ICC World Cup in England and Wales," Zondi said. "We will be facing extremely tough competition in the tri-series in India with both our opponents set to include quite a lot of seasoned international players. This series will be ideal to broaden our talent pool," he added. Zondi also clarified that Tahir will be the frontline spinner in the World Cup but wants to test the other slower bowlers in case the need arises in England.

"As far as the Proteas squad is concerned we have taken the strategic decision to rest Imran Tahir so that we can get a clearer picture as to who our best second spinner is to back him up at the World Cup," Zondi said. "Imran will be our first-choice spinner at the World Cup but, if we play him against Sri Lanka, it is unlikely that we will be able to play both Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj," he added.