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[Saba Sports News] South Africa pacer Lungi Ngidi has been ruled of the home T20I series scheduled versus India due to a left lateral ankle sprain.
As South Africa are already light on bowling resources for the white-ball leg of the tour, comprising three T20Is and as many ODIs, Ngidi’s absence will further add to their worries.
“The 27-year-old has been released from the squad and will return to his provincial team where he will undergo his rehabilitation with the Momentum Multiply Titans under the supervision of the Proteas medical team,” Cricket South Africa informed via a press release.
Ngidi’s participation in the four-day domestic clash, scheduled from December 14-17, in the lead-up to the two-match Test series against India is now unlikely.
“Initially he was expected to play in the round of four-day matches from 14 – 17 December in preparation for the two-match Betway Test series but will instead be further assessed by the medical team on his progress,” it added.
Left-arm quick Beuran Hendricks will fill in Ngidi’s place. He last featured in a T20I in 2021. In total, the 33-year-old has played 19 T20Is for the Proteas and has claimed 25 wickets at an average of 25.08 and an economy rate of 9.19.
Notably, the first T20I of the upcoming series between India and South Africa will be played on December 10 in Durban.