South Africa’s preparations for the three-match ODI series against Australia have faced further disruption following an injury to Kwena Maphaka. The fast bowler sustained a right hamstring strain during a training session and has been officially withdrawn from the squad. He will undergo additional medical evaluations to ascertain the severity of the issue.
In response to the vacancy, selectors have called up seamer Lizaad Williams. He is scheduled to link up with the team on Wednesday, September 23, one day prior to the series opener in Durban. The bilateral contest continues with matches on September 27 in Johannesburg and concludes on September 30 in Potchefstroom, before moving to a three-Test series.
Maphaka’s injury highlights a challenging period for the South African pace attack, which is currently dealing with multiple fitness concerns. Lungi Ngidi was previously sidelined with a hamstring issue sustained while representing the Titans, while both Kagiso Rabada and Ottneil Baartman are also unavailable due to similar hamstring problems. Additionally, Nandre Burger continues to manage a back complaint, and Lutho Sipamla remains unavailable due to injury. The report also notes that the three ODIs will be played on September 24 (Durban), September 27 (Johannesburg) and September 30 (Potchefstroom).
