“South Africa’s left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan. He suffered a left adductor strain during the warm-up session before the first ODI on Tuesday.
This was confirmed through a media release following scans. To stay updated on the latest news and betting odds for the series, consider creating a Betpro account.
Replacement Announced for Maharaj
South Africa has named Bjorn Fortuin his replacement to fill in for Maharaj. Fortuin, another left-arm spinner, will play in the second and third ODIs. Maharaj was initially part of the playing XI but had to be replaced by pace-bowling all rounder Andile Phehlukwayo at the last moment.
Maharaj Returns Home for Recovery
The injury has forced Maharaj to return to his hometown, Durban, for rehabilitation. He will be reassessed before the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. The team is hopeful he will recover in time for the first Test.
South Africa Struggles with Injuries
Maharaj’s injury adds to South Africa’s growing list of unavailable bowlers. Key players, including:
- Anrich Nortje (fractured toe)
- Gerald Coetzee (groin injury)
- Lungi Ngidi (hip problem)
- Nandre Burger (lower back injury)
- Wiaan Mulder (broken finger)
These absences have left the team scrambling to finalize a strong bowling lineup.
Maharaj’s Recent Heroics
Before his injury, Maharaj played a crucial role in South Africa’s victory against Sri Lanka in the second Test in Gqeberha. He took five wickets for 76 runs, leading to a dramatic batting collapse for Sri Lanka.
Options for Spin Bowlers in Test Series
South Africa still has several spin-bowling options for the Test series:
- Dane Piedt
- Senuran Muthusamy
There are also players with outside chances of selection:
- Neil Brand is a batting allrounder who bowls left-arm spin.
- Shaun von Berg, a legspinner who debuted during the New Zealand tour.
- Tabraiz Shamsi, a left-arm spinner, though his last first-class match was in 2021.
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World Test Championship Goals
The first Test against Pakistan will begin on December 26 in Centurion. South Africa is currently at the top of the World Test Championship points table and needs one more win to secure their spot in the final.
This makes the upcoming series even more important for the team as they aim to maintain their lead and overcome the challenges their injured players pose.
