Tony de Zorzi’s Hamstring Injury Forces Exit From England ODI Series

South Africa’s early momentum in the England vs South Africa ODI series has come at a cost. Tony de Zorzi, the top order batter, got a serious hamstring injury in the opening game at Leeds, and he will not be able to play the remaining two matches.

The injury happened when he was making a dive stop on the boundary to deny Jos Buttler a certain four. Although the effort saved runs, it cost him badly. He did not return to the field and was only available to bat if needed. With South Africa chasing a small target of 132, his services were not required.

De Zorzi will now return home for scans, cutting short what had been a promising start to his tour. His absence, however, will not leave South Africa short of options. Matthew Breetzke, who missed the first ODI with a hamstring niggle of his own, has regained fitness and is likely to slot back into the No. 4 role for Thursday’s second match of the SA vs Eng ODI series.

The bigger question surrounds Kagiso Rabada, who continues to manage ankle inflammation and was again absent at Headingley. With Codi Yusuf drafted into the squad, South Africa may not risk their premier fast bowler until the T20 leg of the tour.

Captain Temba Bavuma’s workload also remains under watch. After hamstring issues earlier in the year, he could be rested for one of the remaining games as South Africa balances results with player management.

Right now, South Africa is leading the SA vs Eng ODI series by 1-0, but the absence of de Zorzi will test their batting depth. Fans can follow full squad details and updates from the England vs South Africa ODI series here.