South Africa’s preparations for the second Test against Sri Lanka have been hit by injury concerns, with fast bowler Gerald Coetzee sustaining a groin niggle during Day 4 of the opening Test in Durban. Coetzee’s availability remains uncertain, adding to South Africa’s growing injury list, which already includes all-rounder Wiaan Mulder.
The Proteas celebrated a commanding 233-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, climbing to second place in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. However, the victory was marred by injuries. Mulder was ruled out of the series after fracturing his right middle finger while batting in the first innings. He remained unbeaten on 9 runs and did not take the field for the remainder of the match.
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South Africa captain Temba Bavuma addressed the situation, stating, “Wiaan is out of the series; we have to find a replacement. For Gerald Coetzee, the medical team will have to do their best.”
Matthew Breetzke, who made his Test debut against Bangladesh earlier this year, has been named as Mulder’s replacement for the second and final Test of the series.
In the opening Test, Marco Jansen delivered a standout performance with match figures of 11/86, earning him the Player of the Match award. South Africa’s dominant display not only secured victory but also strengthened their chances of making it to the WTC final in England next year.
The Proteas now hold a points percentage of 59.26% from nine matches, with five wins and three losses. They trail India, who lead the WTC standings with a points percentage of 61.11% from 15 matches. However, the table could shift as India faces Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting Friday in Adelaide.
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