Gerald Coetzee to miss ODI tri-series, Champions Trophy with injury
What's the story
Hours after being named in the South Africa squad, star pacer Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI tri-series in Pakistan with a groin injury. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the news hours after including him in the squad. The injury also rules him out of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Notably, Coetzee recently recovered from a hamstring strain, which restricted his participation in the SA20 competition.
Training setback
Coetzee's injury occurred during training session
The CSA release elaborated that Coetzee "experienced tightness in his groin while completing his 10 overs at training on Wednesday morning at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria." The medical team, after assessing him, determined that his bowling load in ODIs could result in a more serious injury. This isn't the first time Coetzee has encountered such an issue. He has missed several matches with a similar problem in the past.
Squad impact
Coetzee's absence leaves a void in Proteas squad
Coetzee was initially named as Anrich Nortje's replacement for the Champions Trophy. However, his latest injury has thrown another spanner in the 24-year-old's career. South Africa have announced a 12-member squad for the first match of the tri-series. The team will be led by Temba Bavuma and features six players who are yet to play for their country in international cricket. The new faces include Matthew Breetzke, Meeka-eel Prince, Gideon Peters, Eathan Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy and Mihlali Mpongwana.
Information
A look at South Africa's squad
SA squad for tri-nation opener against New Zealand: Temba Bavuma (captain), Eathan Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Junior Dala, Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, Gideon Peters, Meeka-eel Prince, Jason Smith, and Kyle Verreynne.