IND vs SA: Keshav Maharaj to miss Ranchi Test due to shoulder injury

South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj is set to miss the third Test between India and South Africa in Ranchi due to a shoulder injury. George Linde, the left-arm spin bowler will replace him in the playing XI.

Maharaj picked up the injury while fielding on Day 2 of the Pune Test. Cricket South Africa confirmed the injury in their press release dated October 13 (Sunday) after India won the Test by an innings and 137 runs.

“A re-assessment ahead of the start of play this morning along with MRI results revealed that he will not be fit in time to play in the final Test match,” the release said.

Brilliant with the bat

Maharaj picked up a solitary wicket in the entire match but his batting that stole the show. A resilient 72 alongside Vernon Philander on the third day left the Indian bowlers frustrated after their initial burst of wickets. The duo added 109 runs for the ninth wicket before being South Africa were all-out for 275. He then chipped in with a handy 22 the next day after India enforced the follow-on.

“An MRI scan revealed that Keshav has sustained an injury to a muscle in his right shoulder which was strapped in order for him to bat yesterday. He was re-assess this morning, particularly with regards to bowling, and he showed significant discomfort in this latter discipline.

“Based on this morning’s assessment and the findings of the scan, the medical team feel he will not be fit in time for the next Test match in six days’ time. The nature and extent of the injury would mean that he will probably return to play in 14 to 21 days based on his progress during the rehabilitation phase,” team doctor Ramjee Hashendra said.

The third and final Test will be played at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi from October 19 to 23.