ZIM vs SA 2025: Keshav Maharaj ruled out of second Test due to groin strain, Mulder to lead

South Africa suffered a major setback ahead of the second Test against Zimbabwe as stand-in captain Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out with a left groin strain. The injury, sustained while batting on Day 3 of the first Test, will see the veteran spinner return home for further assessment. All-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who had a solid outing in the series opener, will step in as captain for the final Test, starting July 6 in Bulawayo.

"Maharaj sustained the injury while batting on day three of the first Test on Monday. He will return home for further assessment to determine the extent of the injury,” the CSA statement read.

The Proteas head into the second Test after registering a 328-run victory in the first Test. With several regular members unavailable, Maharaj was given the responsibility to lead the side and impressed with a four-wicket haul and a half-century in the second innings.

Bosch, Mulder powers South Africa to massive win

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Bosch, Mulder powers South Africa to massive win

Lungi Ngidi released ahead of second Test

Wiaan Mulder will lead South Africa in a red-ball match for the first time. Despite no captaincy experience at this level, his only leadership stint came in a 2022 One Day Cup quarterfinal for Leicestershire. However, his all-round brilliance in the first Test makes him a natural choice. He hammered a career-best 147 in the second innings after picking up four wickets in the first.

Senuran Muthusamy has been named as Maharaj’s replacement in the squad. The left-arm spinner, who has played four Tests so far, will play a crucial role in the bowling attack. Meanwhile, pacer Lungi Ngidi, who was expected to join the team ahead of the second Test, has been released. Cricket South Africa confirmed that this was made to give the fast bowlers from the opening Test, Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka, and Corbin Bosch, another opportunity after a strong showing in the series opener.

"Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, who was set to join the squad on Wednesday, has been released to give the seamers who impressed in the first Test another opportunity to build on their performances," the statement added.