South Africa's Gerald Coetzee Ruled Out Due to Injury; Major Blow for Proteas

South Africa's cricket team has suffered a major setback as pacer Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out due to a groin injury. Coetzee will miss the upcoming second Test against Sri Lanka as well as the entire series against Pakistan across all formats.

The injury occurred during the fourth day of the Test match against Sri Lanka in Durban, when Coetzee was bowling. Scans revealed a strain in his right groin muscle, meaning he will be sidelined for at least the next six weeks.

In his absence, Quinton Mafaka, the fast bowler who made his international debut earlier this year during the T20 series against the West Indies, will be called up to replace Coetzee.

Coetzee's injury adds to the growing injury concerns for South Africa, who have already lost Wiaan Mulder, the fast-bowling all-rounder, due to a finger injury.

Among the fast bowlers who played in the Durban Test, Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen have both been declared fit for the second Test, and Daryn Patterson will also be available for selection. However, Nandre Burger is still unavailable due to a back injury, and Lungi Ngidi will remain out of action until January.

The second Test against Sri Lanka will begin on December 5 at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth. After that, South Africa will face Pakistan in a series consisting of three T20s, three ODIs, and two Tests.

This series will be crucial for South Africa as they try to manage their injuries and strengthen their squad ahead of a busy international calendar.