Proteas send home troubled Gibbs

Herschelle Gibbs is a veteran of 90 Tests and 244 limited overs internationals

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Batsman Herschelle Gibbs has been sent home from the South Africa squad for the one-day international series against Bangladesh after breaking a team curfew.

The 34-year-old will also be required to attend an alcohol rehabilitation course after staying out late before the Twenty20 International match against Bangladesh yesterday.

“Herschelle's behaviour is unacceptable in the context of team discipline,” said South Africa coach Mickey Arthur.

In explaining the decision to send Gibbs for alcohol counselling, team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said: “We are not trying to punish Herschelle but rather to help him.

“He has been under a lot of pressure lately, notably from the publicity surrounding his recent divorce. It is clear that he has developed a problem that needs to be addressed.

“Herschelle can rely on the full support of CSA to get his life back on an even keel again.

“He still has a lot to offer South African cricket and his many fans but this has to be done in line with team structures and disciplines.”

Gibbs opened the batting and scored 18 from 10 balls.

Gibbs will not be replaced in the Proteas squad with Justin Ontong likely to form a new opening partnership with Hashim Amla.

Regular opener and captain Graeme Smith is injured, and Johan Botha will deputise.