South Africa’s England tour has been hit by injuries, with Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, and David Miller sidelined. The Proteas, however, celebrated Kagiso Rabada’s return in a rain-affected win against England in Cardiff.
Maharaj Misses Cardiff T20I After Groin Injury
Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj was set to play the first T20I in Cardiff but suffered a groin injury during the warm-up. Captain Aiden Markram confirmed Maharaj’s late withdrawal after the game.
“Maharaj was due to feature, but the injury forced us to make a quick change,” Markram said. Corbin Bosch stepped in as his replacement. Maharaj’s recall had raised expectations after he was left out of the squads for Australia and Zimbabwe.
Despite his absence, South Africa secured a 14-run victory on DLS, taking an early lead in the series.
Ngidi Ruled Out of Series With Hamstring Strain
Earlier, pacer Lungi Ngidi had been ruled out with a right hamstring strain. He will fly home on Thursday and faces a race against time to be fit for South Africa’s next challenge — their World Test Championship defence against Pakistan starting October 12.
In Ngidi’s place, left-arm quick Nandre Burger has been added to the squad. Burger will be available for selection from the second T20I at Old Trafford.
Miller Withdraws From Squad After Injury in the Hundred
The Proteas also suffered another setback with David Miller withdrawing from the squad. The experienced batter sustained a hamstring injury during the final week of the Hundred. No replacement has been named for him in the T20I squad.
Positive News as Senior Players Return
While the injuries are concerning, there was good news for South Africa in Cardiff. Kagiso Rabada returned to action after missing the ODIs in Australia and England due to ankle inflammation. He opened the bowling and looked sharp.
Marco Jansen also made his comeback after thumb surgery following the World Test Championship final in June. He bowled two overs, gaining rhythm ahead of crucial fixtures. Lizaad Williams returned from knee surgery and was available, although he was not used in the first match.
South Africa will now hope to keep their fit players on the field as the tour progresses. With key series ahead, managing injuries remains a top priority.
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