South Africa fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia after suffering a right hamstring injury.
The right-arm quick experienced discomfort while playing for the Titans against the Dolphins in the opening first-class match of the series. Scans conducted on Wednesday confirmed the injury, with Ngidi now set to undergo a period of rehabilitation.
His absence will be a blow to South Africa’s preparations for the ODI series, with the team set to face Australia in three matches.
Ngidi’s availability for the subsequent three-match Test series against Australia will be assessed closer to the start of the series, depending on his recovery and rehabilitation progress.
The national selectors have called up Dolphins seamer Nqobani Mokoena to replace Ngidi in the 16-player ODI squad.
Mokoena will now have an opportunity to make an impression as South Africa prepare for their limited-overs campaign against Australia.