Big boost for South Africa, Ngidi declared fit for New Zealand encounter

In a major boost for a reeling South African unit, pacer Lungi Ngidi has been declared fit to play in the crucial encounter against New Zealand. The pacer sustained a hamstring injury after bowling four overs during South Africa’s defeat against Bangladesh. He then missed out on the Proteas’ next three games against India, West Indies and Afghanistan.

The pacer has now passed a fitness test ahead of the big clash against New Zealand at Edgbaston and will be a vital member of setup as South Africa look to get their campaign back on track.

Speaking to the World Cup’s official website, Ngidi said:

“It’s been tough. Injuries are never nice, but with the support staff that I’ve had around me it’s been pretty good and I’ve been alright. It’s just been frustrating not being able to play. I’ve just finished a fitness test today and passed that, so I’m match-fit ready. It’s 100 per cent. That’s how the fitness test goes and if you’re not bowling at 100 per cent then you’re not ready to play.”

The return to fitness of Ngidi will undoubtedly add some potency to the South African bowling unit, who have already lost Dale Steyn for the entire tournament due to a shoulder injury. The Proteas have 3 points from 5 matches and are outsiders to qualify for the semis, sitting at the eighth spot on the table.