South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of both the upcoming tri-nation One-Day International (ODI) series in Pakistan and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a groin injury. The 24-year-old experienced tightness in his groin during a training session in Pretoria, leading the medical team to conclude that participating in the forthcoming matches would pose a significant injury risk giving South African fans and SA cricket a big blow.
This development comes shortly after Coetzee had recovered from a hamstring injury that had previously sidelined him. His absence further depletes South Africa’s fast-bowling resources, especially following the earlier withdrawal of Anrich Nortje from the Champions Trophy due to a back injury.
The tri-nation series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, is scheduled to take place from February 8 to 14, 2025, serving as a preparatory event for the Champions Trophy. South Africa’s campaign in the Champions Trophy is set to begin on February 21 against Afghanistan.
As of now, Cricket South Africa has not announced replacements for Coetzee in either tournament. The team will need to reassess its bowling lineup to address these recent setbacks.