 Kallis starred for the one-day NatWest Series finalists |
South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis could miss the first Test against England after opting to stay at home with his critically ill father. Kallis flew home to be with father Henry, who is critically ill with lung cancer, after scoring 329 runs in the one-day NatWest Series.
He was expected only to miss the current tour match against Somerset, which ended in a draw on Thursday, but he has now extended his stay indefinitely.
The first Test against England begins at Edgbaston on 24 July. "We appreciate that this is an extremely difficult and emotional time for Jacques," said coach Eric Simons in a statement.
"I have told him that he must take as much time as he needs to be with his father.
"He is a vital member of our squad, but ultimately the wellbeing of a player's family comes before any game of cricket.
"The thoughts of the entire touring party are with Jacques."
However, the tourists will be boosted by the return of Shaun Pollock in time for their next match, a three-day game against India A starting at Arundel on Saturday.
Pollock also flew home after the one-day series to spend time with his pregnant wife.
The former South Africa captain is expected to miss the fourth Test of the series at Headingley to attend the birth of his first child.
MMIX
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