Bengaluru, Nov. 12 : South Africa pace bowler Vernon Philander has been ruled out of the remainder of the series against India after suffering an ankle injury ahead of the second Test in Bengaluru.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the 30-year-old has also been advised eight weeks of rest after undergoing an MRI scan, following stepping on Dean Elgar’s foot accidently while practicing.
Fast bowler Kyle Abbott was roped in to replace Philander in the Test squad.
The injury is seen as a big blow for the tourists as pace spearhead Dale Steyn’s participation in the Bengaluru Test was thrown into doubt after sustaining a groin strain last week.
According to a release by the Cricket South Africa, a decision on the availability of Steyn would be taken only after a final fitness test on Friday.
India are currently leading the four-match Test series 1-0 after comprehensively defeating South Africa by 108 runs in Mohali. (ANI)