South Africa batter Keegan Petersen, who was named player of the series in the 2-1 series win against India at home, has been tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss the two-match Test series in New Zealand, South Africa's cricket board, Cricket South Africa (CSA), said on Wednesday.
"The number three batsman is well and asymptomatic. Cricket South Africa's (CSA) medical team will keep in close contact with him to ensure his physical and mental well-being," CSA said in a statement.
The 28-year-old will be replaced by Zubayr Hamza, who played his last test over two years ago.
Petersen was adjudged as ‘Player of the Series’ for his performances in the three Tests against India as he was the top run-scorer in the Test series, scoring 276 runs at an average of 46.00. He was the only player to score more than three half-centuries, recording scores of 72, 82, and 62.
The two-match Test series between South Africa and New Zealand will commence on February 17 with both the matches set to be played in Christchurch due to emergence of COVID-19 variant Omicron. The second and final Test will start from February 27.
South Africa’s updated Test squad: Dean Elgar (captain), Temba Bavuma (vice-captain), Sarel Erwee, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Lutho Sipamla, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wicket-keeper).
Meanwhile, according to a report in Stuff.co.nz, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is likely to miss the Tests against South Africa as he continues his rehabilitation from an elbow injury.
The New Zealand squad for the two Test matches is expected to be named later this week.
