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South Africa suffered a major setback as fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha, as well as the upcoming all-format series against Pakistan, due to a groin injury.
Coetzee sustained the injury during the fourth day of the Durban Test against Sri Lanka. Scans revealed a muscle strain in his right groin, ruling him out of action for up to six weeks. Kwena Maphaka, who debuted earlier this year in T20Is against the West Indies, has been called up as Coetzee’s replacement.
Coetzee’s Performance in Durban
The injury occurred during Coetzee’s spell in the morning session on day four, where he partnered Kagiso Rabada to open proceedings. After an initial three-over spell, Coetzee bowled just two more overs before halting due to discomfort.
He returned after lunch, bowling three overs and dismissing Dinesh Chandimal with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort. However, he was unable to continue after the session, with South Africa’s coach Shukri Conrad revealing that Coetzee had reported a “groin niggle” during lunch and had to bowl strapped up.
South Africa’s Injury Concerns
Coetzee’s absence deepens South Africa’s injury woes ahead of a packed cricketing calendar. Key all-rounder Wiaan Mulder is already sidelined with a fractured middle finger, while fast bowlers Nandre Burger (lower back stress fracture) and Lungi Ngidi (out until January) are unavailable.
Despite these challenges, the Proteas still have Rabada and Marco Jansen, who was the Player of the Match in Durban, available for the second Test. Dane Paterson is the other quick in the squad, and Maphaka’s inclusion will bolster their pace options.
Upcoming Fixtures
South Africa will face Sri Lanka in the second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha, from December 5 to 9. Following the Test series, South Africa will host Pakistan for a high-profile all-format series, including three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests.
Coetzee’s injury is a blow to South Africa’s hopes, but the team will be looking to rally around their remaining pace attack to maintain momentum in the Sri Lanka series and beyond.
