Why Are De Zorzi and Ferreira Missing the T20 World Cup and West Indies Series?
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Synopsis
In a significant blow to South African cricket, injuries have sidelined key players Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira from the T20 World Cup and the West Indies series. With replacements named and the countdown to the tournament on, fans are left wondering how this will impact the team's chances.
Key Takeaways
- Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira ruled out of T20 World Cup.
- Injuries create uncertainty for South Africa's cricket team.
- Replacements include Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs.
- David Miller also unavailable due to injury.
- South Africa's campaign begins on February 9 against Canada.
Johannesburg, Jan 22 (NationPress) South Africa's batter Tony de Zorzi and all-rounder Donovan Ferreira have been officially ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against the West Indies as well as the Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka, due to injuries, confirmed Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Thursday.
De Zorzi is still recovering from a right hamstring tear he incurred during an ODI against India last month, while Ferreira suffered a fractured left clavicle in an SA20 match on January 17 between Joburg Super Kings and Pretoria Capitals.
In their absence, wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton and batting all-rounder Tristan Stubbs have been named as replacements in the 15-man squad. Additionally, veteran left-handed batter David Miller will also miss the T20Is against the West Indies due to an adductor injury sustained while playing for Paarl Royals; his participation in the T20 World Cup will depend on a fitness assessment.
To fill Miller's spot, Rubin Hermann has been added to the squad for the series against the West Indies. Pacer Lungi Ngidi, who bowled only two overs in a recent match against Sunrisers Eastern Cape, is expected to recover from a leg issue in time for the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Dewald Brevis, who scored a crucial 75 runs despite a finger injury, will undergo a scan on Thursday.
The Aiden Markram-led Proteas team will gather on January 23 before their first match against the West Indies in Paarl on January 27, followed by fixtures in Centurion on January 29 and Johannesburg on January 31. Players who are part of the SA20 knockout phase will join the squad on January 26.
South Africa's T20 World Cup team is set to depart for India on February 1. The ICC Men's T20 World Cup will run from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka. South Africa is placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Arab Emirates. Their campaign kicks off on February 9 against Canada at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significant impact of these injuries on the South African cricket team. The absence of key players like De Zorzi and Ferreira creates uncertainty ahead of high-stakes matches. However, the resilience of the squad and strategic adjustments will be vital for their success.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries have affected the South African players?
Tony de Zorzi has a right hamstring tear, while Donovan Ferreira has a fractured left clavicle.
Who will replace the injured players?
Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs have been named as replacements in the squad.
When does the T20 World Cup take place?
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup is scheduled from February 7 to March 8.
