South Africa face more injury setbacks ahead of 2025 Champions Trophy

South Africa’s preparations for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 have hit another roadblock as David Miller and Lungi Ngidi join the team’s growing list of injured players. The tournament is set to take place next month in Pakistan and the UAE.  

Both players are dealing with fitness issues after sustaining injuries during the ongoing SA20 tournament.  

Miller, a key middle-order batter, appeared to injure himself while fielding for the Paarl Royals in a match against Durban’s Super Giants. Positioned in the covers, he failed to stop a drive from Marcus Stoinis in the 14th over and left the field soon after with a noticeable limp. Although he didn’t require help to walk off, the Royals are yet to provide an official update on his condition.  

Meanwhile, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi missed the same game, marking his fourth consecutive absence in the tournament. Ngidi, who recently returned from a groin injury that kept him out for eight weeks, is still working on regaining full match fitness.  

Paarl Royals coach Trevor Penney shared optimism about Ngidi’s recovery, saying, “He’s almost back now. Big fast bowlers sometimes need a couple of weeks to find their rhythm. I’m sure when we go to the Highveld, he’ll be ready to play.”  

The Proteas’ injury concerns have already forced changes to their Champions Trophy squad. Lead pacer Anrich Nortje was ruled out with a back injury, while Gerald Coetzee, who was expected to replace him, is sidelined with a hamstring issue.  

Other fast bowlers, including Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams, Daryn Dupavillon, Wiaan Mulder, and Ottneil Baartman, have also faced injuries recently, leaving South Africa’s bowling attack heavily depleted.  

The team must finalize a replacement for Nortje by February 11, the deadline for squad changes.  

South Africa’s Champions Trophy campaign is set to begin in February, with fans hoping the team can overcome its injury challenges and perform strongly in the tournament.