South Africa’s fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha and the upcoming all-format series against Pakistan due to a groin injury. Coetzee sustained the injury while bowling on day four of the Durban Test. Scans revealed a muscle strain in his right groin, sidelining him for up to six weeks.
Fast bowler Kwena Maphaka, who debuted earlier this year in T20Is against West Indies, has been named as Coetzee’s replacement.
During the Durban Test, Coetzee bowled in short spells, but his discomfort was evident. After the morning session, he reported a groin niggle to coach Shukri Conrad, who confirmed that the bowler continued to play strapped up after lunch but was unable to complete the day. Coetzee managed to dismiss Dinesh Chandimal before leaving the field.
This injury compounds South Africa’s challenges, as they are already without Wiaan Mulder due to a fractured finger. While key pacers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen remain fit, Nandre Burger is sidelined for the season with a back stress fracture, and Lungi Ngidi will be out until January.
The second Test against Sri Lanka is scheduled for December 5-9 at St George’s Park. Following this, South Africa will host Pakistan for a series of three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests.