Kwena Maphaka for SA (Source: AFP)
Kwena Maphaka, the 19-year-old South African pacer, has suffered an injury scare in a domestic game. The fast bowler is a part of the T20I match against Namibia and white-balls squads for the Pakistan tour. However, while playing a first-class game for the Lions against Western Province, the bowler suffered discomfort in his hamstring, which has raised concerns over his participation in the international assignments.
The pacer, though, went for scans immediately after suffering an injury, and according to ESPNCricinfo, the scans revealed no major damage. The bowler also came back on the field for the second innings and played an important role in Lions' win by an innings and 134 runs with his three-fer. The cricketer is now expected to undergo precautionary MRI scans to confirm his availability for the upcoming international tours.
Maphaka's rapid progress at the international level
Maphaka was the star of the show for South Africa in the U19 World Cup 2024 and, since then, has taken rapid strides at the international level. He has played for his country across formats and recently did well on the Australian tour.
The left-arm seamer has also been part of IPL teams like the Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals. Thus, the cricketer is rated very highly and South African team management would be hoping that he is deemed fit and continues to prove his worth at the international level.
South Africa are slated to play a one-off T20I against Namibia on October 11. They have recently qualified for the T20 World Cup 2026 and would be looking to impress against a second-string Proteas side. On October 12, South Africa will start the Test series against Pakistan, and it will be followed by the white-ball series, where Kwena Maphaka is scheduled to play his first international series in the subcontinent.
