Nandre Burger has been ruled out of the remainder of South Africa’s three-match ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Test series in Bangladesh due to a “lumbar stress reaction.” Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed Burger’s injury after scans revealed discomfort in his lower back. He will return home for further assessments.
No replacement has been announced for the third ODI, but CSA indicated that a replacement for the Test series in Dhaka and Chattogram will be named later. The Test squad already includes fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, and Wiaan Mulder.
Tony de Zorzi also missed the second ODI due to a “soft tissue injury” in his right knee. He sustained the injury while attempting a slide to field a ball during the first ODI and was later seen walking gingerly. An MRI scan revealed the nature of the injury, and he was rested as a precaution.
De Zorzi, part of the Test squad for Bangladesh, is expected to open the batting with Aiden Markram. The middle-order will likely include Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma, and David Bedingham. One of Ryan Rickelton or Kyle Verreynne, both wicketkeeper-batters, will also feature. Uncapped Matthew Breetzke is also available as a backup option. South Africa currently leads the ODI series 1-0 after a commanding 139-run win in the first match.
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