South Africa has encountered another setback with emerging pacer Gerald Coetzee ruled out of the upcoming second Test against India at Newlands in Cape Town. Coetzee, who developed pelvic inflammation during the first Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion, will be sitting out the final match of the series. This comes after skipper Temba Bavuma was earlier ruled out due to a left hamstring strain.
Cricket South Africa shared the news through a post on ‘X,’ stating, “COETZEE RULED OUT OF NEW YEAR’S TEST AGAINST INDIA. Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the second Betway Test against India after developing pelvic inflammation during the first Test at SuperSport Park.”
In the Centurion Test, Coetzee, 23, bowled 16 overs in the first innings, claiming the solitary wicket of Mohammed Siraj but conceding 74 runs at 4.62 runs per over. His absence in the second innings was inconsequential as India folded for 131, leading to a convincing innings and 32 runs victory for South Africa.
With Coetzee unavailable, the Proteas have Wiaan Mulder and Lungi Ngidi as potential fast-bowling replacements for the upcoming Test. The second match of the series is scheduled to commence on January 3, 2024, in Cape Town, where Dean Elgar will lead the Proteas in his farewell match, stepping in for the regular captain Bavuma.
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