South Africa have suffered another major setback ahead of the 3rd ODI against India, with top-order batter Tony de Zorzi ruled out of the match due to injury. The young left-hander, who has been impressive in recent months, sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI on Wednesday.

What happened to Tony de Zorzi?

De Zorzi experienced sharp pain in the right hamstring area while batting during South Africa’s run chase in the 2nd ODI. He was unable to continue his innings and walked off the field immediately. Medical assessments were conducted, and scans on Friday confirmed the extent of the injury.

How long will he be out?

The injury has not only ruled him out of the third ODI, but also the entire five-match T20I series against India, which begins on 9 December. Cricket South Africa has announced that de Zorzi will return home, and no replacement has been named for him.

Other major updates for South Africa

South Africa’s injury list continues to grow:

  • Nandre Burger is out of the 3rd ODI with a right hamstring strain suffered while bowling.

  • Kwena Maphaka, recovering from a left hamstring injury, has been withdrawn from the T20I squad as he did not progress as expected.

  • Lutho Sipamla has been added to the T20I squad as a replacement for Maphaka.

Impact on South Africa

With both Burger and de Zorzi ruled out, and Rabada missing the ODI series, South Africa are suddenly thin in both pace depth and top-order batting. Replacement options such as Ryan Rickelton and Ottneil Baartman are expected to slot into the XI for the ODI decider.

India, meanwhile, go into the 3rd ODI with the same combination after strong performances from Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad and the spin attack.

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