The 27-year-old hit back-to-back centuries during a justconcluded one-day triangular series against England and Zimbabwe, averaging 109.66 during the tournament. The player is also a genuine allrounder and has taken 174 Test wickets at 30.43 as well as averaging over 50 with the bat.
The Western Province star is at present the only player to feature in the top 10 of both the batting and bowling world rankings.
In a statement, coach Eric Simons described Kallis as a "vital" player for South Africa. He said: "We appreciate that this is an extremely difficult and emotional time for Jacques. I have told him that he must take as much time as he needs to be with his father. He is a vital member of our squad, but ultimately the well-being of a player's family comes before any game of cricket. The thoughts of the entire touring party are with Jacques."
Reports from in the South African press suggest that Justin Kemp, who has been playing well for Worcester, may be an option to replace Kallis.
South Africa were getting in some more useful batting against India A at Arundel. With skipper Graeme Smith, Herschelle Gibbs, Gary Kirsten and Jacques Rudolph having all scored half centuries, they moved on to 423 for six, 104 runs ahead.
