SA's skipper Amla quits

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP):

Hashim Amla surprisingly quit as South Africa's Test captain yesterday in the middle of the four-Test series against England, hoping "someone else can add more value" as skipper.

Amla said after the drawn second Test at Newlands where he made a double century in a big return to form with the bat that he was stepping down immediately.

"I am comfortable in my decision knowing that I have given my best and will continue to do so," Amla said after the match.

popular decision

He will remain available as a batsman for the remaining two Tests.

AB de Villiers will replace Amla as captain for the remainder of the series, Cricket South Africa chief executive Haroon Lorgat said.

Amla took over the captaincy from the long-serving Graeme Smith in June 2014 in a popular decision considering his outstanding test record as a batsman. However, he came under pressure after a lean run of recent results for the top-ranked team, and relative struggles with his own form.

Amla captained South Africa for 14 Tests winning four, drawing six and losing four.