South Africa's pace sensation Andre Nel has postponed his wedding by two hours so that he is able to play in the fourth Test match against the West Indies in Pretoria next week.
The wedding was originally scheduled to take place at 4:30pm on January 17, the second day of the Test match. The booking was made ten months ago before Nel was contracted to the United Cricket Board (UCB).
Gerald De Kock of the UCB said on Sunday that Nel and his fiancee had now managed to move the wedding out by two hours to 6:30pm, allowing the bowler to play a full part in the second day's play.
"Nel was naturally delighted with the solution to what was a tricky situation," said De Kock.
Nel said he was happy that he would play for his country and also get married.
"It has been a pretty confusing and difficult time for us, but I am very pleased we were able to find an alternative time."
The paceman brushed aside doubts that he could get distracted by thoughts about walking down the aisle as he sweats it out in the middle.
"I am fully committed to playing in the Test match and will be giving my usual 100 percent on the field throughout," Nel said.
The bowler was appreciative of his fiancee Deanne and the officials for co-operating with him throughout.
"Deanne has been very understanding and supportive throughout the whole issue, as have the coach and convener of selectors."
Nel was not concerned with the possibility of play continuing on beyond the scheduled 5:30 pm close on the second day. "For once the groom might be late for the wedding," he quipped.
The fast bowler has been in great form in the series so far, taking 17 wickets at 22.47 in the three Test matches.
National coach Eric Simons said he was pleased the issue had been settled.
"It is good news all round. Nel has been a key man in our attack and it will be good to be able to select from the full squad."
