Why is Lungi Ngidi not playing today’s SA vs BAN match of 2023 World Cup?
Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the 2023 World Cup match between South Africa and Bangladesh, currently being played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The medium pacer seemingly picked up a niggle during Proteas’ win against defending champions England, which they won by a mammoth 229 runs. Lizaad Williams has replaced him in the playing XI.
At the toss, stand-in South Africa captain Aiden Markram said:
“Ngidi has a niggle, he misses out, Lizaad comes in.”
Ngidi has so far picked up six wickets in four World Cup matches. The 27-year-old finished with figures of 2/26 in his last outing against England.
He will want to recover ahead of their next game against Pakistan in Chennai on October 27. The Durban-born cricketer needs just five wickets to complete 200 wickets in international cricket.
In Ngidi’s absence, Williams will play his first game of the 2023 World Cup.
In other news, Temba Bavuma continued to sit on the sidelines due to gastric illness.
Lizaad Williams replaces Lungi Ngidi as South Africa opt to bat against Bangladesh in 2023 World Cup match
South Africa's stand-in captain Aiden Markram won the toss and opted to bat against Bangladesh. He said at the toss:
“We will bat first. Trying to approach in a similar way to the English game. It's really hot. It took a toll on everyone, it's advantage fielding in the evening. It proves that anyone can beat anyone. We took lessons from that Netherlands game, it's a new day today. We need to try and repeat the same thing.”
The Proteas have won three out of their first four games, losing their only game to the Netherlands by 38 runs.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan made his comeback after missing out on the previous match. The all-rounder replaced Towhid Hridoy in the playing XI.
Bangladesh are coming off the back of three consecutive losses against England, New Zealand, and India. They lost their last game against the Men in Blue by seven wickets.
Follow SA vs BAN 2023 World Cup live score and updates here.