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SA vs AUS ODI: Major blow for South Africa, Ottniel Baartman ruled out of Australia series due to injury; Duan Jansen added to squad
The South African team has suffered a significant setback ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. Fast bowler Ottniel Baartman has been ruled out of this crucial series due to a left hamstring injury. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed his withdrawal on Sunday and has named young all-rounder Duan Jansen as his replacement in the squad.
Injury sustained during domestic match
Ottniel Baartman had returned to competitive cricket this week, playing for the Dolphins against the Titans in the CSA 4-Day Series. However, he could only bowl five overs during the match before leaving the field. He did not come out to bat in the second innings either. A subsequent assessment confirmed a hamstring injury, forcing him to sit out.
Opportunity for Duan Jansen
Duan Jansen, brought in as Baartman's replacement, will join the squad in Durban on September 19.
Duan recently made his ODI debut against Namibia, delivering a stellar performance in the second match by taking 4 wickets for 31 runs.Pressure on South Africa's pace attack
The South African pace attack is already grappling with injuries:
- Kagiso Rabada is recovering from a hamstring injury and is unavailable for selection.
- Anrich Nortje has not been selected for this series.
- Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has returned to the ODI squad for the first time since the 2023 World Cup.
- The pace bowling duties will now rest with Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, youngster Kwena Maphaka, Corbin Bosch, and Duan Jansen.
This three-match ODI series between Australia and South Africa will be played from September 24 to September 30 across Durban, Johannesburg, and Potchefstroom.
