Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of South Africa’s home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan due to a groin injury. He will start rehabilitation, with a return expected in January. Test captain Temba Bavuma is recovering from an elbow issue, set for a fitness test before the series. South Africa needs to win four Tests to reach the World Test Championship final.
Lungi Ngidi, the fast bowler for South Africa, has been officially ruled out of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan due to a groin injury. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced that Ngidi, aged 28, recently underwent a medical evaluation, which revealed bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy. He is set to commence a rehabilitation program and is anticipated to return to the field in January. As a result, Ngidi will miss the two Test matches against Sri Lanka and the subsequent series with Pakistan. In his Test career, Ngidi has secured 55 wickets at an average of 23.14 over 19 matches; his last outing with the national team was in the ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi last month. In related news, Test captain Temba Bavuma is making favorable progress in his recovery from a left elbow injury. He is scheduled to take a fitness test on November 18 to assess his readiness for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which is set to commence on November 27 in Durban. Bavuma previously missed South Africa’s Test series in Bangladesh due to this elbow injury, sustained during the second ODI against Ireland. Should Bavuma be unable to participate, Aiden Markram will assume leadership for the Test matches against Sri Lanka. South Africa currently stands fifth in the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship standings, with a point percentage of 54.17, while Sri Lanka holds third place with a percentage of 55.56. In order to maintain their chances of competing in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s next year, South Africa must win all four of their remaining Test matches.
Lungi Ngidi’s injury comes at a critical time for the South African cricket team as they prepare for an important home series. Ngidi, known for his impressive wicket-taking capabilities, has been a key player for the Proteas. His absence will undoubtedly influence the team’s dynamics and performance against formidable opponents such as Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Additionally, Temba Bavuma’s fitness is crucial as he strives to lead the team effectively upon his return, particularly in light of South Africa’s position in the ICC World Test Championship standings.
In conclusion, Lungi Ngidi’s exclusion from South Africa’s upcoming series due to a groin injury represents a significant loss for the team. With his rehabilitation set to last until January, his absence will be felt as they face Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Temba Bavuma’s recovery will be pivotal for South Africa’s strategy in the Tests, especially as they strive to improve their standing in the World Test Championship.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
