Domingo blames 'excessive workload' behind Proteas' tri-series failure

South African coach Russell Domingo has blamed excessive workload over his players as the reason behind his side's failure to reach the finals of the Caribbean tri-series.

The Proteas' hopes of making it to the tournament finals were crushed after they suffered a 100-run defeat against hosts West Indies in the crucial ninth match of the ODI tri-nation series at Kensington Oval on June 24.

The loss also invited a flurry of criticism from the media with experienced player Morne Morkel and skipper AB de Villiers being blamed for the defeat.

Domingo, however, blamed excessive workload for the team's failure and insisted it is extremely difficult to maintain consistency and standard with hectic schedule, Sport24 reported.

When it comes to workload, swashbuckling batsman De Villiers is a hot topic as he has not taken break since the start of the season.

Domingo admitted that he is worried about the 32-year-old, but remains adamant that the skipper would be the first one to be considered for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand if he proves his fitness.

South Africa will play two-match Test series against New Zealand, starting from August 19 at Kingsmead.