The first Test will be played at Kingsmead from 19 to 23 August followed by the second at SuperSport Park from 27 to 31 August.
Cricket South Africa (CSA)’s medical team have ruled both De Villiers and Morne Morkel out for approximately six weeks because of injury.
Wayne Parnell is the only member of the 15-man squad announced by CSA today who did not play in the most recent Test series against England.
“It is most unfortunate that we will not be able to call on two players of the quality and experience of De Villiers and Morkel,” commented CSA Selection Convener, Linda Zondi.
“However, we are fortunate to have a capable stand-in leader in Du Plessis and other exciting options to select from.
“Injuries are a reality that we have to deal with and with both Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander fit and firing again after their respective long-term injuries, I am confident that we have the players to take on New Zealand and win.
“Another very encouraging sign is the good pre-season form being shown by a number of Test squad members during the two South Africa A four-day series. These include Stephen Cook, Dean Elgar, Stiaan van Zyl, Vernon Philander and Dane Piedt.”
Commenting on the injuries, Proteas team manager, Dr Mohammed Moosajee said, “AB complained of pain in his left elbow while he was participating in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and subsequent MRI scans revealed an impingement of the joint capsule.
“It is most unfortunate that we will not be able to call on two players of the quality and experience of De Villiers and Morkel,” commented CSA Selection Convener, Linda Zondi.
“However, we are fortunate to have a capable stand-in leader in Du Plessis and other exciting options to select from.
“Injuries are a reality that we have to deal with and with both Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander fit and firing again after their respective long-term injuries, I am confident that we have the players to take on New Zealand and win.
“Another very encouraging sign is the good pre-season form being shown by a number of Test squad members during the two South Africa A four-day series. These include Stephen Cook, Dean Elgar, Stiaan van Zyl, Vernon Philander and Dane Piedt.”
Commenting on the injuries, Proteas team manager, Dr Mohammed Moosajee said, “AB complained of pain in his left elbow while he was participating in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and subsequent MRI scans revealed an impingement of the joint capsule.
