India vs South Africa Injury Update: South African Lungi Ngidi replaces injured Rabada in the squad

Big relief for South Africa: Lungi Ngidi included in the squad for the second Test, Rabada's participation doubtful

A significant change has been made to the team following South Africa's sensational win at Eden Gardens in Kolkata (their first Test win in India since 2010). Experienced fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been added to the squad to cover for the absence of Kagiso Rabada, who is suffering from a rib injury.

Ngidi's inclusion indicates that Rabada's injury remains a concern. The South African team has other fast bowling options in Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder, but Ngidi's experience will strengthen the team.

A look at the stats

• Lungi Ngidi has played 20 Test matches in his career so far.
• He has played only three Tests since returning to the side in January 2024.
• His last Test match was the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia in June.
• His experience in India is limited; He has played only one Test in Ranchi in 2019, in which he failed to take a wicket.
• Recently, he participated in the ODI and T20 series in Pakistan in October-November and also played a match for the Titans in the CSA T20 Challenge, indicating that he is match-fit.

The Mystery of the Guwahati Pitch

In the first Test, South Africa's fast bowlers (who bowled 40 overs and took six wickets) received ample assistance from the Kolkata pitch. However, it is still unclear what the conditions will be like at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, as this ground has never hosted Test cricket before. In Rabada's absence, Ngidi may have to shoulder the new ball responsibility along with Jensen and other fast bowlers.