South Africa have announced a key change to their T20I squad ahead of the five-match series against India, as young fast-bowling sensation Kwena Maphaka has been ruled out due to injury. The left-arm quick, who has been undergoing rehabilitation for a left hamstring injury, has not recovered in time and will miss the start of the series.

Why is Kwena Maphaka not playing?

Cricket South Africa confirmed that Maphaka “did not progress as expected during the final phase of his rehabilitation”. Despite being close to full fitness, the medical team felt he would not be ready in time for the opening T20Is, prompting management to withdraw him from the squad entirely.

This comes as another setback for South Africa, who are already without Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi due to hamstring injuries.

Who replaces Maphaka?

The Proteas have named Lutho Sipamla, the DP World Lions fast bowler, as Maphaka’s replacement for the T20 leg of the tour. Sipamla brings international experience and has been in strong domestic form, making him a logical choice to bolster the depleted pace attack.

Impact on South Africa’s T20I plans

With Maphaka out and Burger uncertain, South Africa’s fast-bowling depth has taken a significant hit. The team may now rely more heavily on Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, and the returning Sipamla to share the workload.

The five-match T20I series begins on Tuesday, December 9, with South Africa looking to stabilise after a series of untimely injuries across formats.