South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the second and final Test against India due to pelvic inflammation, a setback he suffered during the first Test in Centurion. The 23-year-old pacer's injury worsened while bowling on the third day of the opening Test, where he managed to secure only one wicket in the first innings and bowled just five overs in the second. Despite his limited contribution, South Africa convincingly defeated India by an innings and 32 runs.
Cricket South Africa has decided not to name a replacement for Coetzee in the upcoming Test scheduled to begin on January 3 in Cape Town. The team has alternative fast bowling options in Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder, both included in the squad for the series. Additionally, the hosts may consider bringing in Keshav Maharaj, who was not selected for the first Test, to bolster their bowling attack.
The absence of Coetzee is undoubtedly a blow for South Africa, but with a talented pool of fast bowlers at their disposal, the team aims to maintain its winning momentum against India in the final Test.
South Africa's Revised Squad: Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne.