Joburg Super Kings’ bad run of luck in SA20 continued on Saturday as their captain Faf du Plessis picked up an injury while fielding against MI Cape Town. Owing to the same, he has been ruled out of the remainder of the season. Donovan Ferreira has been named as the captain, while Leus du Plooy replaces him in the squad.
JSK’s campaign has already been hit hard by injuries, including a recent setback to Rilee Rossouw. The latest Faf du Plessis injury is even more damaging, given the dual role he plays as opener and captain. The timing of the injury adds to JSK’s growing concerns, with the side already struggling to find rhythm and consistency this season.
How Did Faf Du Plessis Injure Himself in SA20?
The Faf du Plessis injury occurred during the SA20 clash against MI Cape Town while he was fielding. Known for his athleticism and commitment on the field, the 41-year-old went all out while attempting to stop a ball inside the ring.
In the process, Du Plessis jammed his thumb into the ground, injuring it immediately. The discomfort was evident, and he was unable to grip the bat properly afterward. Head coach Stephen Fleming later confirmed the incident, saying the injury was serious enough that Du Plessis simply could not continue batting. The incident was a reminder of how much effort the veteran continues to put in, even at this stage of his career.
Faf Du Plessis Injured and ruled out of the season
This is not the first injury setback for Du Plessis in SA20. In the very first game of the season, the JSK captain sustained an elbow injury. Despite the issue, he continued to play, managing the discomfort while leading the side.
Fleming later revealed that Du Plessis had been nursing that elbow problem throughout the early part of the tournament. The latest thumb injury, however, is a bigger concern, as it directly affects his ability to bat and field effectively. With injuries already thinning the squad, another potential absence places further strain on JSK’s plans.
What Does Faf Du Plessis Injury Mean for JSK?
The Faf du Plessis injury is a major blow for Joburg Super Kings, especially given the form he was showing at the top of the order. In the current SA20 season, Faf du Plessis scored 135 runs from five innings, averaging 27 at a healthy strike rate of 151. Those numbers underline just how effective he was in giving JSK strong starts and early momentum.
In his last two innings, Du Plessis looked particularly fluent, striking the ball cleanly and dictating the tempo during the powerplay. His ability to balance aggression with control remains one of his biggest strengths, especially in high-pressure situations.
Even at 41, Du Plessis continued to set elite standards in the field, saving crucial runs and leading by example with his intensity. As captain, he was the central figure the side rallied around, offering clarity in tactics and calmness in tight moments. His absence will not only weaken JSK’s batting at the top, but also leave a visible leadership void on the field.
With Stephen Fleming admitting the team must prepare alternatives if the injury does not settle, Joburg Super Kings now wait anxiously, hoping their captain’s setback proves to be short-term. Given the impact he was already making this season, replacing Du Plessis — both as a batter and a leader — will be no easy task.
