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Keshav Maharaj Ruled Out of Second Test Against Zimbabwe Due to Groin Injury
South Africa Make Leadership and Squad Changes Ahead of Second Test in Bulawayo
South Africa have been dealt a blow ahead of the second and final Test against Zimbabwe, as experienced left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out due to a groin strain. Maharaj sustained the injury while batting on Day 3 of the first Test in Bulawayo, which South Africa won convincingly by 328 runs.
Maharaj to Return Home for Injury Assessment
Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that Maharaj will fly back home immediately to undergo further medical evaluation and determine the severity of the strain. His absence leaves a notable void in the South African side, not only as their frontline spinner but also as a senior member of the squad.
Senuran Muthusamy, who has featured in four Test matches so far, has been called up as Maharaj’s replacement. The left-arm allrounder last played a Test in 2022 and offers a balanced skill set that could be crucial on the spin-assisting Bulawayo track.
Wiaan Mulder to Lead in Maharaj’s Absence
Maharaj had been appointed captain for this second-string South African squad in the absence of several regulars. With his withdrawal, CSA announced that allrounder Wiaan Mulder will take over captaincy duties for the second Test starting July 6 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Mulder’s elevation to leadership comes on the back of a stellar all-round performance in the opening Test. He picked up 4 wickets in Zimbabwe’s first innings and followed it up with a commanding 147 runs, underlining his value to the team across both departments.
Related: South Africa Crush Zimbabwe by 328 Runs in First Test
Lungi Ngidi Released as Proteas Stick With Young Pacers
In another strategic move, CSA has released pacer Lungi Ngidi from the squad to allow continuity for the young pace attack that featured in the first Test. The Proteas had fielded a promising quartet of Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka, Corbin Bosch, and Mulder, all of whom impressed with their performances.
By keeping faith in these young seamers, South Africa signals a forward-looking approach, providing opportunities to develop future stars while maintaining their dominance in the series.
South Africa will now enter the second Test with renewed leadership under Wiaan Mulder and without the experience of Keshav Maharaj. While Muthusamy’s inclusion ensures a spin option, the team will need to adapt quickly to maintain momentum and secure a series sweep against Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back on familiar home turf and exploit the absence of Maharaj to challenge the Proteas more effectively.
