In a significant blow to the South African cricket team, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against India due to a left lateral ankle sprain. The 27-year-old sustained the injury recently, prompting Cricket South Africa (CSA) to release an official statement regarding his unavailability for the T20Is.
Ngidi, originally selected for both T20I and Test fixtures against India, will be returning to his provincial team to undergo rehabilitation. The decision to exclude him from the T20I series was confirmed just two days before the opening match between South Africa and India.
The official statement from CSA cited Ngidi’s left lateral ankle sprain as the reason for his absence and assured fans that the Proteas medical team will be closely monitoring his rehabilitation process. The cricket board has named Beuran Hendricks as Ngidi’s replacement for the T20I series.
While Ngidi’s focus is on recovering in time for the two-match Test series against India, scheduled to commence on December 26, the absence of the talented fast bowler in the T20Is will be felt by the Proteas. The Test series holds additional significance as it is part of the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
The announcement raises questions about the team’s bowling lineup for the T20Is, and fans will be eager for updates on Ngidi’s progress and potential return to the Test series. His presence will be crucial for South Africa’s chances in the Test matches against a formidable Indian side.
The T20I series between South Africa and India is set to kick off shortly, and the Proteas will need to regroup swiftly in the absence of Ngidi to put up a competitive performance against the touring Indian team.
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