South African pacer Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the upcoming 2nd Test against India due to pelvic inflammation, which developed during the 1st Test and worsened as he continued to bowl on the third day. Coetzee, who secured one wicket in the initial match, remains without a replacement, and there's no confirmed timeline for his recovery at present.
After Temba Bavuma's exclusion, Coetzee became the second South African player to be sidelined for the upcoming Test. His absence might help Team India, currently struggling after their 1-0 loss in the Boxing Day Test due to a miserable innings at SuperSport Park. Wiaan Mulder and Lungi Ngidi could be the potential replacements for Coetzee in the second Test, while spinner Keshav Maharaj could also be considered depending on Newlands' pitch.
COETZEE RULED OUT OF NEW YEAR’S TEST AGAINST INDIA 🇿🇦🇮🇳
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 30, 2023
Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the second Betway Test against India after developing pelvic inflammation during the first Test at SuperSport Park. #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/MLHKRw86OK
South Africa claimed victory in the 1st test with an innings and a 32-run lead, gaining a 1-0 advantage in the two-match series. The 2nd Test is expected to start on January 3 in Cape Town.