Nandre Burger Ruled Out Bangladesh Tests Due To Back Injury

Nandre Burger ruled out due to injury (Source: WP_Blitz/x.com)Nandre Burger ruled out due to injury (Source: WP_Blitz/x.com)

South African fast bowler Nandre Burger has been ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing ODI series against Ireland and the upcoming Test tour of Bangladesh due to a lumbar stress reaction. The 29-year-old experienced discomfort in his lower back, that promoted further scans, which revealed the injury. 

Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the news on Friday, October 4, stating that Burger would return home for additional assessments and treatment. The injury comes as a setback for the Proteas, with Burger playing a crucial role in South Africa’s recent matches.

Nandre Burger To Miss The Rest Of ODI Series Against Ireland

Nandre Burger last represented South Africa in the second ODI against Afghanistan, and was benched for both T20I's against Ireland and missed the first ODI of the current series. 

His absence leaves a gap in South Africa's bowling attack, as they prepare for two more ODIs against Ireland before heading to Bangladesh for a two-match Test series, beginning on October 21. CSA has yet to announce a replacement for the fast bowler in the Test squad, but a decision is expected in due course.

Burger's lumbar stress reaction, while not as severe as a full stress fracture, typically requires a recovery period of 4-6 weeks with a rehabilitation program. However, if his condition worsens, the injury could sideline him for months. South African pacer Anrich Nortje faced a similar setback recently, missing nearly six months of action due to a stress fracture.

For now, the Proteas will have to move forward without Burger and rely on their other pace options as they aim to finish the ODI series against Ireland on a high note and prepare for the challenging tour of Bangladesh.