PAK vs SA: Major blow for South Africa ahead of series against Pakistan

South Africa’s tour of Pakistan, features T20I matches from December 10 to 14

PHOTO: AFP

South Africa’s fast bowler, Lungi Ngidi, has been ruled out of the upcoming all-format tour against Pakistan due to a groin injury, marking a significant setback for the Proteas.

Ngidi, who was last seen in action during the third ODI against Ireland in October, had a tough outing, conceding 70 runs in nine overs without taking a wicket. Although he was expected to return for the Test series against Sri Lanka, further medical assessments have revealed that he is suffering from bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy – an injury related to the groin area caused by overexertion, common among fast bowlers.

As per Cricket South Africa’s official statement, Ngidi will be unavailable for both the Test series against Sri Lanka and the upcoming tour to Pakistan, leaving a gap in South Africa’s fast bowling arsenal. The 28-year-old pacer is now set to begin a rehabilitation program, with the aim of returning to action by January 2025.

“Proteas Men’s fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour against Pakistan, due to a groin injury. The 28-year-old recently underwent a medical assessment as part of his structured conditioning period, during which scans revealed bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy. He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and is expected to return to play in January,” CSA said in a statement.

In more positive news for the Proteas, Test captain Temba Bavuma is reportedly making good progress in his recovery from a left elbow injury. Bavuma is scheduled for a fitness test on Monday, November 18.

“Test captain Temba Bavuma is making positive progress in his recovery from a left elbow injury and will undergo a fitness test on Monday, 18 November to determine his availability for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which starts in Durban on 27 November,” it added.

South Africa’s tour of Pakistan is expected to be a challenging affair, with the T20I matches scheduled from December 10 to 14, followed by the ODI series from December 17 to 22, and the two Tests from December 26 to January 7.

Tour Schedule: