3 bowlers who can replace Lungi Ngidi for Pakistan's tour to SA
The Proteas were dealt a massive blow when it was announced that star pace bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of action for around three months due to a knee injury he picked up in Australia. The talented bowler has also been replaced in the Mzansi Super League.
The injury was sustained by Ngidi during the one-off T20 match between South Africa and Australia and now means that the pace bowler will have to sit out during the season between South Africa and Pakistan this summer.
Ngidi has been an integral part of the South African bowling line-up and his injury comes as somewhat of a blow to the South African side as they prepare for the ICC World Cup in England next year. Coach Ottis Gibson has made it clear that he intends for Ngidi to be part of a three bowler pace attack at the World Cup alongside Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada, so the injury to the young bowler does come at a very unfortunate time especially with such an important series ahead. While Ngidi does look set to return before the World Cup, South Africa will need to find a suitable replacement for Ngidi for the upcoming series against Pakistan.
Fortunately for South Africa, their country is one which seems to be able to produce quality fast bowlers almost at will. While Ngidi will be sorely missed and could have used the series against Pakistan to fine tune his game ahead of the World Cup, this does provide an opportunity for other bowlers in the country to put their hands up for selection and to show the world just what they can do if they are given a chance.
While there are many such bowlers in South Africa, this article will take a closer look at three bowlers who have been impressive and who have showed that they do have the potential to perform on the international stage on a regular basis. While Ngidi does leave big shoes to fill, these talented bowlers may do a more than good enough job and may give the selectors a thing or two to think about once Ngidi does return.