Why is Tony de Zorzi Not Playing Today in IND vs SA 3rd ODI?⁩

South African middle-order batter, Tony de Zorzi, reported discomfort in his right hamstring while batting and had to retire hurt during the run chase of the 2nd ODI of the series. Subsequent scans conducted on Friday confirmed the extent of the injuries sustained by both him and Kwena Maphaka.

As a result, De Zorzi has been ruled out of the entire five-match T20I series against India starting Tuesday, 9 December, and will fly back home. No replacement has been named for the top-order batter.

Why is Tony de Zorzi not Playing Today in IND vs SA 3rd ODI?⁩

South Africa confirmed on Saturday (December 6) via X about both Tony De Zorzi injury and young quick pacer Kwena Maphaka niggle. The selectors have brought in Lutho Sipamla to cover for Maphaka’s absence. De Zorzi, along with pacer Nandre Burger, is also unavailable for the third ODI in Visakhapatnam.

Burger also endured a similar hamstring injury while bowling in the second ODI. Earlier, one of the best bowlers in the world, Kagiso Rabada, was also ruled out of the series due to a rib injury. The absence of Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi is a major blow for the team, as both looked in decent form throughout the ODI series.

Men in Blue in Control of the Series Decider Against the Proteas

The Visakhapatnam decider witnessed a dominant bowling display as Prasidh Krishna and Kuldeep Yadav took charge, running through South Africa’s batting unit and collecting eight wickets between them. Their efforts restricted the Proteas to 270/10, and they were unable to bat for 50 overs, turning the match firmly in India’s favour with matching four-wicket hauls.

After leaking runs in his opening spell, Prasidh made a remarkable comeback, striking at crucial intervals to derail South Africa’s progress. He got Matthew Breetzke with an lbw, dismissed Aiden Markram soon after, and removed the well-set Quinton de Kock just after he crossed his century.

At the other end, Kuldeep Yadav, who is among the best spinners in the world, sent back Dewald Brevis and Marco Jansen before going through the tail by removing Corbin Bosch and Lungi Ngidi. His figures of 4/41 ensured South Africa lost their way after being in a decent position, sealing a series-defining bowling effort for India.