South African pacer Gerald Coetzee was on December 30 ruled out of the second Test match against India. The 23-year-old right-arm fast bowler from the visiting team encountered a setback during the first Test match in Centurion, suffering from pelvic inflammation. This injury, which initially appeared during the match, worsened while the bowler was in action on the third day.
In the course of the game, he managed to claim only one wicket in the first innings and was restricted to bowling a mere five overs in the second innings. This physical limitation contributed to the team's challenging situation as South Africa clinched a significant victory by an innings and 32 runs.
In light of this development, Cricket South Africa has decided not to call up a replacement player for the upcoming Test match scheduled to begin on January 3 in Cape Town. This decision implies that the team will rely on the existing squad members for their fast bowling needs. Available within the team are Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder, both capable fast bowlers who offer solid options for the team's lineup. Additionally, the team could consider including Keshav Maharaj, a player who was not part of the first Test but remains a viable choice for the upcoming match.
This development comes shortly after the team's captain, Temba Bavuma, was ruled out for the subsequent game due to a hamstring injury. Coetzee's injury marks the second significant loss for the South African squad in this series. The absence of these key players presents a challenge for South Africa as they prepare for the next match. The team will now have to strategize without Bavuma's leadership and Coetzee's skills, testing their depth and adaptability in the face of these unexpected changes.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Harbhajan Singh reveals 'India's best Test batter' and it's not Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant
Ex-India batter throws huge shade at Rohit Sharma, dubs 'Hitman' a 'weaker player' and questions his place in the team
