Teenage fast bowler Maphaka joins South Africa squad for second Test against Sri Lanka

DURBAN: South Africa has called up 18-year-old fast bowler Kwena Maphaka to their squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha, starting Thursday. Maphaka, who has represented South Africa in three T20 Internationals but is yet to make his Test debut, joins the team as a replacement for George Coetzee, who has been sidelined with a groin injury.

The young pacer will compete with seasoned seamer Dane Paterson and spinner Senuran Muthusamy for a spot in the playing XI as South Africa aims to continue their impressive form. The hosts secured a commanding 233-run victory in the first Test in Durban, marking their fourth consecutive win and strengthening their chances of qualifying for the ICC Test World Championship final at Lord’s in June.

A victory in Gqeberha would not only seal the series against Sri Lanka but also set South Africa on course for the coveted final. To guarantee their spot, they would also need to triumph in the upcoming two-Test home series against Pakistan later this month.