SA vs IND: This star South African pacer has been ruled out of second Test against India, here’s why

South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to begin on January 3 in Cape Town, due to pelvic inflammation. Coetzee experienced discomfort that "progressively worsened while bowling" during India's second innings in the first Test in Centurion. Scans conducted on Friday revealed the extent of the injury.

Coetzee, who could only bowl five overs in India's second innings, left the field as South Africa faced a comprehensive defeat. As a precautionary measure, head coach Conrad Shukri decided to release Coetzee from the squad.

COETZEE RULED OUT OF NEW YEAR’S TEST AGAINST INDIA

Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the second Betway Test against India after developing pelvic inflammation during the first Test at SuperSport Park#WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/MLHKRw86OK

Proteas Men @ProteasMenCSA December 30, 2023

This marks the second injury setback for South Africa in the series, with captain Temba Bavuma ruled out of the next game due to a hamstring injury. The team has fast-bowling alternatives in Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder, although Ngidi was unfit for the first Test. Additionally, the team can consider Keshav Maharaj if conditions necessitate a spinner.

In the Centurion Test, Coetzee was South Africa's most expensive bowler in both innings, managing just one wicket. The upcoming Test would have been Coetzee's fourth, following his debut against West Indies earlier in the year.