Faf Du Plessis Out of SA20 Season Due to Injury

Faf Du Plessis, captain of Joburg Super Kings, has been ruled out for the remainder of the SA20 season due to a thumb ligament injury requiring surgery. This setback comes as JSK struggles with injuries, including that of Rilee Rossouw. Coach Stephen Fleming expressed concerns about the team's prospects without their star players. With Du Plessis's impressive performance this season, his absence will significantly impact JSK's chances as they aim for playoff success. Currently, the team sits third in the points table, facing tough competition ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 17:49 IST

Faf Du Plessis Injured and Excluded from SA20

Faf Du Plessis, the captain of Joburg Super Kings (JSK), has suffered a ligament tear in his right thumb, which will prevent him from participating in the remaining matches of the SA20 season. This injury necessitates surgical intervention.

The incident occurred during a match against MI Cape Town on Saturday, where Plessis sustained the injury while fielding in the first innings. His team attempted to chase down a target of 235 runs without his batting contribution. Despite commendable half-centuries from James Vince and Dian Forrester, JSK fell short, finishing at 198/5 in their allotted overs.

Coach Acknowledges Injury Setback

In a post-match press conference, JSK's head coach Stephen Fleming addressed the injury, noting the significant impact it had on Plessis's ability to hold his bat. He explained, "He jammed his thumb into the ground, causing considerable damage. It's clear that he couldn't bat, which is unfortunate, especially when chasing a target of 200 runs; we need our key players on the field."

Fleming expressed concern about the team's injury woes, stating, "While we hope it's just bruising and will heal, I am not overly optimistic given our current injury situation. We must be prepared for alternative strategies moving forward."

Consequences for Joburg Super Kings

In five innings this season, Faf Du Plessis accumulated 135 runs, boasting an impressive average of 151.68, with a top score of 47.

This injury marks a second significant setback for JSK, following the hamstring injury of fellow South African player Rilee Rossouw, who is also sidelined for the competition.

Under Du Plessis's leadership, JSK has reached the playoffs in all three previous seasons but has yet to secure a championship title. Over 40 matches and 36 innings, he has scored 1,029 runs at an average of 32.15, with a strike rate nearing 144, including one century and seven fifties.

Currently, JSK holds the third position in the points table, having won three out of seven matches, totaling 17 points, trailing behind Pretoria Capitals and Sunrisers Eastern Cape.