In a major setback ahead of his limited-overs tour of Pakistan, South African star batsman David Miller He has been ruled out of the entire series with a hamstring injury. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that the left-hander suffered a grade one hamstring strain during training, forcing him to miss the T20I and ODI legs of the ongoing tour.
Injury setbacks rock South Africa ahead of white-ball series against Pakistan
Miller’s absence is not the only blow to South Africa’s plans. The Proteas will also be left without a fast bowler Geraldine Coetzeewho has been ruled out of both formats after suffering a pectoral muscle injury during a recent T20I match against Namibia.
These double injuries have compounded the South Africa team’s challenges, especially as several veteran players were rested ahead of a packed international schedule. The absence of two key players – Miller’s middle-order experience and Coetzee’s pace – will test the bench’s strength as they prepare for a competitive Pakistan team at home.
South Africa ODI and T20I captains
Cricket South Africa has entrusted Donovan Ferreira with the T20I captaincy, a decision seen as an investment in the team’s next generation of leaders. Ferreira, known for his aggressive middle-order batting and adaptability, will look to inspire a young team against Pakistan’s experienced T20I unit.
To support the reshuffled line-up, Matthew Breetzke and uncapped batsman Tony de Zorzi were added to the T20I squad. Its inclusion highlights CSA’s focus on fostering new talent while maintaining balance within the team.
In the ODI setup, Matthew Breetzke will take over as captain, with Ottneil Baartman replacing Coetzee to strengthen the bowling attack.
PAK vs SA: white ball series schedule
The limited edition series begins on October 28 with the first T20I in Rawalpindi. The last two T20 matches will be held in Lahore on October 31 and November 1. After the T20Is, both the teams will head to Faisalabad for the three-match ODI series, scheduled for November 4, 6 and 8.
Also READ: Pakistan announce white-ball teams for South Africa series, Babar Azam returns in T20Is
South Africa’s T20I and ODI teams for Pakistan tour
T20I Team:
Donovan Ferreira (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams
ODI Team:
Matthew Breetzke (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Lizaad Williams.
ALSO READ: Fans react as defending WTC champions South Africa bounce back to level the series at 1-1 with a dominant win over Pakistan in the Rawalpindi Test.
