In a fresh blow for South Africa, pacer Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the ODI tri-series in Pakistan with a groin issue and will not be considered for the selection of the Champions Trophy 2025.
The 24-year-old played only one game in the SA20 2025 because of a left hamstring injury and was making his return after playing just one match in the space of two months.
“The 24-year-old experienced tightness in his groin while completing his 10 overs at training on Wednesday morning at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria,” Cricket South Africa stated in their release.
PLAYER UPDATE 🗞
Proteas fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the upcoming tri-nation One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan and New Zealand.
The 24-year-old experienced tightness in his groin while completing his 10 overs at training on Wednesday… pic.twitter.com/3vr175kK4z
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) February 5, 2025
“Following further assessment by the Proteas medical team, it was determined that the symptoms posed an increased risk of significant injury at a higher bowling load required for the upcoming 50-over matches. A replacement will be announced in due course.”
Earlier in the day, South Africa’s head coach Rob Walter named in the 12-member squad which included Coetzee, for the first match of the tri-series, against New Zealand in Lahore on February 10.
According to Cricket South Africa, more players will be added to the initial squad following the SA20 Eliminator between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Joburg Super Kings on Wednesday, while the final squad for the upcoming series will be announed on February 09 after the final of the franchise league.
Following the conclusion of tri-nation series, South Africa will be starting their Champions Trophy campaign where they have been placed in Group B along with Afghanistan, England and Australia.
The Proteas men will play their first match of the ICC tournament against Afghanistan on February 21 at National Karachi Stadium.
