South Africa’s cricket team has encountered a setback in the lead-up to their second Test against India, with fast bowler Gerald Coetzee ruled out of the upcoming match due to pelvic inflammation. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced this development on social media, revealing that Coetzee developed the ailment during the first Test in Centurion. His absence is confirmed for the New Year’s Test, scheduled to commence on January 3 in Cape Town.
During the series opener, Coetzee bowled 21 overs and secured one wicket at the expense of 102 runs. Despite the injury setback, the 23-year-old has showcased promising performances, featuring in three Tests and claiming 10 wickets at an average of 24.50.
Gerald Coetzee notably made a significant impact during South Africa’s ODI World Cup campaign in India, contributing to the team’s journey to the semi-finals with an impressive display in the league stage. He emerged as a key player, bagging 20 wickets in eight matches at an average of 19.80.
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The young bowler’s outstanding performance in the ODI World Cup earned him a substantial IPL deal with the Mumbai Indians, a five-time champion franchise. Mumbai Indians acquired Coetzee for a notable sum of Rs 5 crore, and he is anticipated to join forces with Jasprit Bumrah in the upcoming IPL season, as the franchise aspires to end its title drought, having last claimed the trophy in 2020.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the second #SAvIND Test after developing pelvic inflammation during the first test.#GeraldCoetzee #Cricket #SouthAfrica #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/h5dveOvdYk
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) December 30, 2023
Expressing his eagerness for the IPL stint, Gerald Coetzee stated, “I cannot wait to join the Mumbai Indians team for the next IPL season. Running out at the Wankhede in the blue and gold, and bowling with Bumrah, I cannot wait. It’s going to be fantastic. I’m so excited to see all of you there.”
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In the context of the ongoing Test series, South Africa secured a resounding victory in the first Test in Centurion, preventing India from securing their first-ever Test series win in the country. Kagiso Rabada played a pivotal role with a five-wicket haul in the first innings and two wickets in the second, propelling the hosts to an innings victory by a margin of 32 runs, thereby taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
