Star Indian player set to Miss Test Series vs South Africa, selectors name his replacement

South Africa is set to host the Indian Cricket Team for a two-match Test series after the ODI series ends. Team India is yet to win a Test Series in this part of the world. The last time India was here, they had lost the series 2-1 in controversial circumstances. 

The first Test of the series is set to be played on Boxing Day in Centurion. Just before the first test could begin there is bad news for the Indian team as one player is set to fly back home. Mohammed Shami has already been ruled out of the series due to an ankle injury. 

Temba Bavuma is set to be back for the longer format after being rested for the white ball formats. The home team is also facing a huge injury crisis before the first test match on the 26^th of December.

Star Indian player set to fly back home due to personal reasons –

Indian fans were dealt a massive blow as the Indian Cricket Board announced that Ishan Kishan will not be part of the Test Series. According to the statement released by the Board, the 25-year-old is set to go back home due to personal reasons. 

The statement from the Indian Board read, “Mr. Ishan Kishan has requested the Indian Cricket Board to be released from the upcoming Test Series against South Africa citing personal reasons. The wicket-keeper has subsequently been withdrawn from the Test Squad.”

30-year-old KS Bharat has been named as the replacement player for Ishan Kishan. The wicket-keeper batter is already in South Africa as a part of the India A team. Meanwhile, fast bowler Prasidh Krishna has been added to the squad as a replacement for Mohammed Shami. The Indian bowler is recovering from a long-standing injury to his ankle which he carried even during the ODI World Cup.

Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi are also doubtful starters for the South African side. It is speculated that Anrich Nortje could be in line for a test match return. Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee could be the other fast-bowling options for Temba Bavuma. The first test will be played in Centurion, while Cape Town will host the 2^nd test match.