Keshav Maharaj Ruled Out of Second Test Against Zimbabwe, Wiaan Mulder to Lead

South Africa’s cricket team faces a significant shake-up for the second and final Test against Zimbabwe, set to begin on July 6 in Bulawayo. Star left-arm spinner and stand-in captain Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out after sustaining a groin strain while batting on Day 3 of the first Test, which South Africa dominated with a 328-run victory. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that Maharaj will return home for a medical assessment to determine the severity of his injury.

Proteas left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out of the second Test against Zimbabwe due to a left groin strain.

The captain for the series sustained the injury while batting on day three of the first Test on Monday. He will
return home for further assessment to… pic.twitter.com/Kn51qpgErH

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) July 2, 2025

In Maharaj’s absence, allrounder Wiaan Mulder will take the reins as captain. Mulder proved his worth in the first Test, claiming four wickets in Zimbabwe’s first innings and contributing a stellar 147 runs with the bat. His leadership will be crucial as South Africa aims to seal the series.

Senuran Muthusamy, a left-arm spinner with four Test caps, has been named as Maharaj’s replacement. Muthusamy’s inclusion ensures South Africa retains spin bowling depth in the squad. Meanwhile, CSA has also released pacer Lungi Ngidi, opting to give further opportunities to the pace attack from the first Test, which included Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka, Corbin Bosch, and Mulder. Maharaj had been the lone spinner in the opening match.

The changes reflect South Africa’s strategy to balance experience and opportunity while adapting to the loss of their key spinner and captain. All eyes will be on Mulder and the revamped squad as they aim to maintain their dominance in Bulawayo.

                                               

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