Why are Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi absent from the third ODI against India?
Synopsis
In a significant development ahead of the third ODI against India, South Africa's Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi are sidelined due to injuries. Their absence complicates the team's challenge as the series is currently tied. Discover the implications of these injuries and the team's response as they prepare for a crucial match.
Key Takeaways
Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi are ruled out due to injuries.
The third ODI takes place at the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.
South Africa is already missing pacer Kagiso Rabada .
De Zorzi will also miss the upcoming T20I series against India.
Lutho Sipamla has been named as a replacement for Kwena Maphaka .
Visakhapatnam, Dec 6 (NationPress) South Africa's fast bowler Nandre Burger and batter Tony de Zorzi will miss the third One-Day International (ODI) against India on Saturday due to injuries.
With the series tied at 1-1, the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam is ready to host this crucial match.
According to a statement from Cricket South Africa, "Burger felt discomfort in his right hamstring while bowling in the second ODI on Wednesday, while de Zorzi experienced pain in the right hamstring area while batting and could not continue during the run chase."
Both players underwent scans on Friday, revealing the severity of their injuries.
Additionally, South Africa is already missing pacer Kagiso Rabada, who was ruled out due to a minor injury, compounding their challenges with a weakened pace attack.
De Zorzi, who faced difficulties during the second ODI in Raipur, has also been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20 International (T20I) series against India, starting on December 9, to return home for treatment. CSA has not announced any replacements for either player.
Despite showing promise during the tour, de Zorzi was retired due to injury after scoring 17 runs off 11 balls in Raipur, having scored 39 in the first match. Although South Africa managed their best chase against India and leveled the series, he was unable to contribute further.
The statement further noted that fast bowler Kwena Maphaka has not progressed as anticipated during the final stages of his rehabilitation from a left hamstring injury and will not be fit in time for the T20I series. He has also been withdrawn from the squad.
In response to the situation, South Africa has announced the inclusion of fast bowler Lutho Sipamla as a replacement for Maphaka.
Point of View
The injuries to key players like Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi highlight the unpredictable nature of sports. The impact on team dynamics and performance is significant, but it also opens opportunities for other players to step up and make their mark. It’s vital for the team to adapt and maintain focus as they strive for success in the series against India.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries have ruled out Burger and de Zorzi?
Nandre Burger is suffering from right hamstring discomfort, while Tony de Zorzi is experiencing pain in the right hamstring area.
When is the third ODI scheduled?
The third ODI is scheduled for Saturday as part of the series tied at 1-1.
Are there any replacements for the injured players?
Cricket South Africa has not announced a replacement for Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi, but Lutho Sipamla has replaced Kwena Maphaka.
