New Delhi: South Africa have been forced to make changes to their squad for next month’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs named as replacements for the injured Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira, Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed on Wednesday.
De Zorzi and Ferreira have also been ruled out of South Africa’s upcoming three-match home T20I series against the West Indies, dealing another blow to the Proteas’ preparations for the global tournament.
De Zorzi, Ferreira Ruled Out Due To Injuries
According to CSA, Tony de Zorzi has failed to recover in time from a right hamstring muscle tear, which he sustained during South Africa’s One-Day International series against India last month.
“De Zorzi has not progressed as expected in his rehabilitation from a right hamstring muscle tear and will not be fit in time for the upcoming T20I series,” CSA said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
As a result of the delayed recovery and the need for continued rehabilitation, De Zorzi has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Donovan Ferreira suffered a fracture of his left clavicle during an SA20 league match between Joburg Super Kings and Pretoria Capitals on January 17. The injury has also sidelined him from both the West Indies T20I series and the World Cup.
“Due to his unavailability for the series, Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs have been named as their replacements in the 15-player squad,” CSA added.
David Miller Doubtful For T20 World Cup
South Africa are also anxiously monitoring the fitness of experienced batter David Miller, whose participation in the T20 World Cup is now in doubt.
Miller sustained an adductor muscle injury while playing for Paarl Royals in the SA20 tournament on January 19, ruling him out of the SA20 knockouts and the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies.
“David Miller will play no part in the T20I series,” CSA confirmed.
In his absence, Rubin Hermann has been named as Miller’s replacement for the West Indies series.
However, CSA clarified that Miller’s availability for the T20 World Cup will depend on the results of a fitness assessment ahead of the tournament’s support period.
“His availability for the T20 World Cup remains subject to the outcome of a fitness test,” the board added.
Proteas Face Injury Concerns Ahead Of Major ICC Event
With multiple injury setbacks affecting key players, South Africa will be hoping for a swift recovery from Miller while integrating Rickelton and Stubbs into the squad as they fine-tune preparations for the ICC tournament.