Hashim Amla becomes first-time dad to baby boy

Johannesburg, Jan 19 (ANI): Hashim Amla became the father of a baby boy after his wife gave birth to their first son in Durban on Wednesday afternoon.

The South African cricketer was released from the ODI squad to be with his wife during this special time.

The Proteas have promptly congratulated Amla on the new addition to his family.

"It's a special time for Hashim and his family, we miss him in the squad but family comes first," Sport 24 quoted South African ODI captain, AB de Villiers as saying.

"We'd like to wish him all of the best with his bundle of joy and hopefully the young one can hold a bat like him one day, South Africa could do with another Hashim Amla in the future.

Coach Gary Kirsten, who also recently became a father to his third child, a daughter named Joanna also commented on the occasion.

"Having a child changes everything about you, it is an incredibly life-changing moment and I would like to wish Hashim all of the best during this time," Kirsten said.

It's a privilege to be a parent and I hope he enjoys every moment.

Even the team manager, Mohammed Moosajee sent his wishes to the batsman.

"The Proteas' family continues to grow and maybe this is the next generation of South African cricketers.

We'd like send our heartiest congratulations and blessings to Hashim and his wife," he added. (ANI)