South Africa has been dealt a potential blow ahead of their critical two-match Test series against Pakistan, as left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has sustained a groin strain. 

The injury occurred during South Africa’s warm-ups for the opening ODI of the ongoing series against Pakistan. Maharaj, who was originally named in the playing XI for the match, had to be replaced by Andile Phehlukwayo after the injury.

Maharaj is a key figure in South Africa’s Test side, often serving as their sole specialist spinner, while Aiden Markram provides support with his part-time off-spin. The severity of Maharaj's injury has yet to be fully assessed, but it adds to South Africa's growing list of injury concerns. The Proteas have already lost key players, including Anrich Nortje, Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Wiaan Mulder.

If Maharaj is unable to recover in time for the Boxing Day Test, South Africa could turn to either Dane Piedt or Senuran Muthusamy as their spin options for the crucial match.

Meanwhile, Mulder, who broke his finger during the recently concluded home series against Sri Lanka, is also racing against time to be fit for the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan.

The upcoming series against Pakistan is vital for South Africa, as they need just one more victory to secure their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

The first Test between Pakistan and South Africa will begin on December 26 in Centurion.