South Africa vs Zimbabwe: Willem Mulder ruled out of the ODI series

South Africa have been dealt with a blow in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe as their all-rounder Willem Mulder has been ruled out of the series. He sustained an ankle injury while practising before the second match in Bloemfontein and has been withdrawn for further assessment. Khaya Zondo has replaced him in the playing XI for the second ODI as the hosts decided to go in with an extra batsman.

Mulder was one of the many positives for the Proteas in the series opener. He bowled incisively to keep the opposition batsmen at bay and nipped out a crucial wicket of Craig Ervine during his six-over spell. The 20-year-old conceded only 19 runs while also contributing 14 runs with the bat when his side needed in a tricky chase.

As far as Willem Mulder’s injury is concerned, Proteas team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee informed that the cricketer will miss the ODI series and will be kept under keen observation now. Also, the selectors haven’t gone against naming a replacement for him.

“Wiaan felt some pain and discomfort in his left ankle at practice and has been withdrawn from the remainder of the ODI series. He will be assessed by an ankle and foot specialist in Johannesburg, who will be able to further assess the injury and give us a way forward in terms of the treatment and rehab strategy. The selectors will not name a replacement for the last ODI,” he said according to ICC‘s official website,

Steyn bails SA out of trouble

With the second ODI currently in progress at Mangaung Oval, South Africa have posted 198 runs after opting to bat first. They were struggling at 101/7 at one stage but then Dale Steyn, who was playing his first ODI in two years, bailed them out of the trouble with a 60-run knock. This was also his maiden half-century in 117th ODI of his career and should be confident of backing up the performance with the ball now.

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