South Africa fast bowler Lungi Ngidi will miss the three-match ODI series against Australia because of a right hamstring injury.
South Africa have suffered another bowling setback ahead of their three-match ODI series against Australia, with fast bowler Lungi Ngidi ruled out because of a right hamstring injury. Ngidi experienced discomfort during a domestic first-class match and subsequent scans confirmed that he will need a period of rehabilitation.
The injury means Ngidi will miss all three ODIs against Australia, which are scheduled to take place in Durban on September 24, Johannesburg on September 27 and Potchefstroom on September 30. His absence further reduces South Africa’s options in the pace department ahead of an important international assignment.
South Africa had already lost Kagiso Rabada and Ottneil Baartman to injuries before Ngidi was ruled out. The repeated injuries have forced the team management to make several changes to the bowling group as the Proteas prepare for the series.
To replace Ngidi, South Africa have called up young pacer Nqobani Mokoena. The bowler recently made his ODI debut against Namibia, appearing in two matches and taking one wicket. His inclusion provides the squad with additional pace-bowling depth ahead of the Australia series.
Ngidi’s availability for the following ICC World Test Championship series against Australia will be assessed closer to the start of that campaign. The Test series is scheduled to begin in October, meaning South Africa will have to monitor his rehabilitation carefully before deciding whether he is ready to return to the longer format.
The ODI series itself will also carry significance beyond the immediate results, as South Africa continue preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which they will co-host with Zimbabwe and Namibia. Every international series gives the team an opportunity to assess combinations and build depth ahead of the tournament.
For now, South Africa will have to move forward without Ngidi. The Proteas will rely on the remaining experienced bowlers and their younger replacements as they begin the ODI series against Australia in Durban.
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