The South Africa National Cricket Team faced a major blow during the second ODI against India at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, as pacer Nandre Burger broke down mid-over in a worrying on-field moment. The incident occurred moments after Virat Kohli guided a short ball through the covers for a single.

As Nandre Burger turned to begin his next run-up, the signs of trouble appeared instantly—he stuttered twice, clearly unable to gather momentum, and discomfort was written all over his face. Within seconds, Burger began hobbling, struggling to land on his right leg before clutching his right knee in visible agony.

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The South African physio rushed in as the visitors watched anxiously. The timing could not have been worse, especially given the Proteas’ already-battling form and fitness issues on this tour. Nandre Burger, who had only recently returned from a long injury layoff, attempted a brief check-up on the field but eventually walked off alongside the physio, unable to complete his seventh over.

Could be his back apparently and if thats the case its worrying as he just came back from a lower back stress fracture which kept him out of the game for around 9 mts.

— Lawrence Bailey (@LawrenceBailey0) December 3, 2025

Nandre Burger is injured and leaving the field. pic.twitter.com/OiBbXpAqnu

— I r S h A d (@IrShAd_MU) December 3, 2025

With no immediate backup plan, skipper Temba Bavuma turned to Aiden Markram to finish the disrupted 39th over. The injury has raised serious concerns for South Africa, as early indications suggest the issue could be related to Burger’s right hamstring—an area dangerously close to where he previously suffered a stress fracture that kept him sidelined for nearly nine months.

ESPNcricinfo reported that Burger is undergoing further assessment, but the Proteas camp is understandably nervous, especially with Kagiso Rabada already unavailable due to a rib issue.

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Before leaving the field, Burger bowled 6.1 overs, conceding 43 runs while delivering a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Rohit Sharma for 14. Marco Jansen continued to impress as South Africa’s most effective bowler, claiming two wickets, including the prized scalp of a fluent Ruturaj Gaikwad, who notched up a commanding century.