Lungi Ngidi is ruled out of South Africa’s upcoming series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan due to a groin injury. He is expected to return in January after completing his rehabilitation. Test captain Temba Bavuma is also recovering from an elbow injury, with a fitness test scheduled for November 18, impacting his availability for the series starting November 27. South Africa currently holds fifth place in the World Test Championship standings and needs victories to secure a chance at the final.
Lungi Ngidi, the South African fast bowler, has been officially ruled out from the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan due to a groin injury, as reported by Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Thursday. At the age of 28, Ngidi recently underwent a medical assessment during his conditioning period, which led to the discovery of bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy. He is set to commence a rehabilitation program and is anticipated to make a return to play by January. Ngidi’s absence will impact South Africa’s chances during the two Tests against Sri Lanka and the all-format series against Pakistan. In 19 Test matches, Ngidi has taken 55 wickets, boasting an impressive average of 23.14. His most recent international appearance for the Proteas was in the ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi last month. Additionally, the captain of the Test team, Temba Bavuma, is reportedly progressing well in his recovery from a left elbow injury. He is scheduled to undergo a fitness test on November 18 to assess his availability for the Test series commencing in Durban on November 27. Bavuma’s injury occurred during a run in the second ODI against Ireland, which prevented him from participating in last month’s Test series in Bangladesh. Should Bavuma be unable to take the field against Sri Lanka, Aiden Markram is poised to step in as the captain for the Test matches. At present, South Africa sits in fifth place in the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship standings, with a point percentage of 54.17. In contrast, Sri Lanka occupies the third position with a point percentage of 55.56. For South Africa to secure a chance at the World Test Championship final in Lord’s next year, they must win all four of their remaining Test matches.
The recent ruling out of Lungi Ngidi due to a groin injury poses a significant challenge for the South African cricket team as they prepare for critical home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Ngidi has been a vital asset to the team, contributing significantly in the Test format. Furthermore, the recovery status of Temba Bavuma, the captain, is also crucial, as his absence could lead to a change in leadership during a pivotal series. The context of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship adds further pressure on the South African side to perform at their best during these fixtures to enhance their standings and prospects for the final.
In summary, Lungi Ngidi’s groin injury leaves a gap in the South African lineup for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, impacting the team’s dynamics and performance. His rehabilitation will take place, with hopes for a return in January. Meanwhile, Temba Bavuma’s fitness will also be decisive for the team’s leadership and strategy. With a need for victories to keep their World Test Championship hopes alive, South Africa faces a challenging road ahead.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
