Kallis's Father Dies

Jacques Kallis's father, Henry, has died at his home in Cape Town aged 65, after a four-month battle with lung cancer. Kallis, who flew home after the NatWest Series, will miss tomorrow's first npower Test against England at Edgbaston, and is likely to remain in South Africa for the foreseeable future, but it is believed that he will return to England to join up with the party after the 2nd test at Lords.

South Africa's captain Graeme Smith said "Our thoughts and sympathies are with Jacques and [his sister] Janine at this very sad time, many of us knew Henry; he was a real gentleman, and a wonderful inspiration and role model for Jacques. There was always a strong bond between 'Jakes' and his dad and I know the whole team with be thinking of him through this desperately sad time."

South African coach Eric Simons said "We want Jacques Kallis to take as much time as he needs to deal with it. Henry was immensely proud of Jacques' achievements both on and off the field. The two of them had a very special relationship and I'm sure Jacques will have many wonderful memories of his dad."

England captain Nasser Hussain added commiserations on behalf of his team. "It is a great blow for Jacques - some things in life are bigger than cricket, however long it takes him to come back, our thoughts are with him."

Posted by Richard