South Africa were dealt an early setback in their ODI series against England as batter Tony de Zorzi was ruled out of the remainder of the tour with a hamstring injury. The left-hander hurt himself while making a diving stop on the boundary during the opening ODI at Headingley, which the Proteas won comfortably. He did not return to field and will now undergo scans at home.
Breetzke Returns to Strengthen Batting
No replacement has been named, but South Africa will be boosted by the return of Matthew Breetzke, who missed the Headingley clash with a hamstring niggle of his own. The in-form batter is expected to slot back into the No. 4 position for the second ODI at Lord’s on Thursday.
Injury Clouds over Rabada, Bavuma
South Africa’s squad continues to juggle fitness concerns. Kagiso Rabada remains sidelined with ankle inflammation and may not return before the T20I leg of the tour. Captain Temba Bavuma is also being managed carefully after his hamstring injury in the World Test Championship final, and could be rested for one of the remaining ODIs.
Maharaj Spins a Web, Eyes Repeat at Lord’s
The Proteas, however, remain upbeat after their bowling masterclass at Headingley, where Keshav Maharaj’s four-wicket haul dismantled England for just 131. The left-arm spinner believes the bowling group has found a rhythm.
I think the plans have been really good… it’s simple plans, but it’s nice to see the mindset change towards coming together as a bowling unit.
England Desperate to Bounce Back
For England, the second ODI at Lord’s is a must-win to stay alive in the series. Skipper Harry Brook will demand a stronger batting display after the top order collapsed in Leeds. Adil Rashid, who impressed in patches, will be expected to trouble the Proteas more consistently on home turf.
Proteas Seek Back-to-Back Away Series Wins
With a 1-0 lead, South Africa are in pole position to claim their second straight overseas ODI series win, having beaten Australia only weeks ago. But de Zorzi’s absence, Rabada’s uncertainty, and Bavuma’s managed workload mean the Proteas cannot afford complacency against an England side desperate to respond.
