South Africa’s fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been sidelined from the second Test against Sri Lanka and the upcoming home series against Pakistan due to a right groin muscle strain. The injury, sustained while bowling on the fourth day of the first Test against Sri Lanka, requires 4-6 weeks of recovery, according to the ICC’s announcement.
To address Coetzee’s absence, South Africa has called up promising young bowler Kwena Maphaka. Maphaka gained attention at this year’s U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup as the leading wicket-taker with 21 dismissals in six matches. The 19-year-old has also represented the national side in three T20Is, making him a notable addition to the squad for the second Test.
Also See:
The setback comes as South Africa eyes crucial victories in their ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC 2023-25) campaign. Coetzee, who has taken five wickets in two Tests in this cycle, was instrumental in the first Test against Sri Lanka, claiming two wickets in each innings. South Africa started the series strongly with a commanding 233-run win, securing valuable WTC points that elevated them to second place in the standings.
The Proteas have faced another injury blow, with all-rounder Wiaan Mulder ruled out of the Sri Lanka series due to a fractured right middle finger. Matthew Breetzke has been named his replacement for the second Test, which begins on December 5 in Gqeberha.
Despite the injuries, South Africa remains focused on maintaining their winning momentum. Victory in the remaining three matches, including two against Pakistan, could strengthen their chances of reaching the 2025 World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.
The updated squad for the second Test includes: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, and Kyle Verreynne.