Nandre Burger to miss Ireland ODI series, Bangladesh Tests
What's the story
South African cricketer Nandre Burger has been ruled out of the ongoing three-match ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi due to a lumbar stress reaction. The injury was discovered after Burger experienced discomfort in his lower back. Subsequent scans confirmed the nature of his injury, as stated by Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Friday. Burger, who missed the first ODI versus Ireland, was recently seen in the 50-over series versus Afghanistan. Here's more.
Homecoming
Burger to return home for further assessments
Following his injury, Burger will return home for further assessments. The announcement of his departure was made just before the start of the second ODI. CSA has not yet provided any information about a potential replacement for the third ODI in the series, which South Africa is currently leading 1-0 after a 139-run victory in their first match.
Test series
Burger's absence from upcoming Bangladesh Tests
In addition to the ODI series against Ireland, Burger will also miss the upcoming Test series in Bangladesh. CSA has stated that a replacement for these matches in Dhaka and Chattogram will be "announced in due course." The current squad includes Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, and Wiaan Mulder as fast-bowling options.
Additional injury
Tony de Zorzi also sidelined due to injury
Tony de Zorzi, another South African cricketer, is also missing the second ODI against Ireland. CSA has revealed that de Zorzi sustained "a soft tissue injury of his right knee" while attempting to slide and field the ball in the deep on the sand-based outfield in Abu Dhabi during Wednesday's first ODI. His absence from today's game is a precautionary measure following MRI scans on Thursday that confirmed his injury.