South African cricket has received a setback with the news that promising fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will miss the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies. The pacer has been ruled out due to a side strain, an injury sustained during his stint with the Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024.

Coetzee had been making significant strides in his Test career and his absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Proteas. The young pacer’s ability to generate pace and bounce made him a valuable asset to the team, and his unavailability is a significant blow to South Africa’s bowling attack.

Replacement announced

In a bid to bolster their pace bowling options, South Africa have called up Migael Pretorius, uncapped at Test level, as Coetzee’s replacement. The bowling all-rounder brings a wealth of first class cricket experience and versatility to the side, capable of contributing both with the bat and the ball.

Pretorius’ inclusion adds depth to the Proteas squad and provides a viable option for the team management. While he may not be a like-for-like replacement for Coetzee, his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a valuable asset.

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Impact on the series

Coetzee’s absence is a significant setback for South Africa, especially considering the challenging conditions that await them in the West Indies. The Caribbean pitches are known to offer assistance to fast bowlers, and Coetzee’s ability to extract bounce would have been crucial.

The Proteas will now have to rely on their remaining pace bowlers to shoulder the burden. Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi will be expected to lead the attack, with Pretorius providing support.

Updated South Africa’s Test squad for West Indies tour

Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne, Migael Pretorius.

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