JOHANNESBURG: Fast bowler Dane Paterson has been called up to South Africa’s squad for the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan.
Paterson’s inclusion has been made to provide back-up after Vernon Philander’s thumb fracture ruled him out, but he is unlikely to play.
“Duanne Olivier was the initial back-up bowler, so he will play, and Paterson will provide backup,” Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said. “As far as Philander is concerned, his fitness will continue to be monitored for the second and third Tests.”
Philander’s injury, as well as the one to Lungi Ngidi, who will be out of action until February, mean that Dale Steyn, Kagiso Rabada and Duanne Olivier, who last played Test cricket against Bangladesh in 2017, will form the pace attack for the first Test.
Paterson, meanwhile, will have to wait to add to his three ODIs and eight T20Is with a Test cap. But his first-class experience, with 321 wickets at 23.56, will keep him in the frame for selection this summer.
Australian professional golfers Hannah Green , and Grace Kim. — AFP/File LOS ANGELES: After two days of shooting...
Francesco Bagnaia holding off Marc Marquez in a thriller at Jerez. — AFP/FileJEREZ, Spain: Reigning MotoGP champion...
Albanian footballer Edon Zhegrova celebrates during the match. — AFP/FileLILLE: Zhegrova came from a goal down to...
Olympic gold medallist Gabby Douglas. — AFP/FilePARIS: Three-times Olympic gold medallist Gabby Douglas returned to...
Paris St Germain’s Kylian Mbappe celebrates during the match. — AFP/File PARIS: Paris St Germain were held to a...
National Stadium Karachi. — APP/FileKARACHI: The deserted look that the National Bank Stadium presented during the...