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Huge Blow For South Africa! Lungi Ngidi Ruled Out, Bavuma Doubtful For Sri Lanka Test

Sakshi Sharma

Lungi ruled out, Bavuma doubtful for first Test vs SL (Source:@ProteasMenCSA,x.com)Lungi ruled out, Bavuma doubtful for first Test vs SL (Source:@ProteasMenCSA,x.com)

In a major setback, the South African fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been officially ruled out due to a groin injury ahead of their upcoming series against against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour against Pakistan. In addition, captain Temba Bavuma remains doubtful for the first Test against Sri Lanka. 

Lungi Ngidi To Miss Sri Lanka Test Due To Injury 

Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the entire two-match Test series against Sri Lanka as well as the subsequent all-format tour against Pakistan. The 28-year-old speedster has not played any cricket since the ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi last month. 

Following a recent medical assessment as part of his structured conditioning period, scans revealed Ngidi is suffering from bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy. This diagnosis requires immediate rehabilitation, and Ngidi is expected to remain out of action until January 2025.

"Proteas Men’s fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour against Pakistan, due to a groin injury. The 28-year-old recently underwent a medical assessment as part of his structured conditioning period, during which scans revealed bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy. He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and is expected to return to play in January."


Bavuma’s Fitness In Doubt Ahead Of Sri Lanka Series

Meanwhile, South African captain Temba Bavuma is also facing injury concerns. He has been suffering with a left elbow injury, and doubtful for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Durban on November 27. 

The 34-year-old sustained the injury during an ODI match against Ireland last month, where he was retired hurt. Since then, he has not participated played and have been sidelined. 

It is important to mention that, Bavuma was set to prove his fitness by playing in a domestic first-class match for the Lions this week. However, medical advice has led to his withdrawal, which means he will not have any match practice before the series opener against Sri Lanka. 

The Proteas are currently in contention for a place in the ICC World Test Championship final, so this Test series against Sri Lanka is a critical one for them.