‘Why start there?’ — Faf du Plessis questions CSA’s logic behind Proteas’ Durban Test opener

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis criticized Cricket South Africa for scheduling the opening Test against Australia at Kingsmead in Durban. South Africa suffered a 214-run defeat in the match, falling behind 1-0 in the three-match series. Du Plessis questioned the strategic logic of beginning the tour at a ground where the Proteas have lost eight of their last 12 Tests, while Australia had previously won four straight Tests there dating back to 2009.

Du Plessis also expressed frustration over the low crowd attendance at Kingsmead, describing it as a missed commercial and viewing opportunity for an iconic rivalry. He argued that alternative venues like St George's Park or Newlands would have provided better home advantage and stronger spectator turnouts. The series now moves to Gqeberha for the second Test starting October 18.