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In the latest development, South Africa batter Aiden Markram has been ruled out the remainder of five-match T20I series against India. Markram already missed the first three matches of the series after being tested positive for Covid-19 before the series opener in Delhi, and will continue his isolation.
In a released statement, Cricket South Africa informed that the batter spent seven days in quarantine after testing positive and will not be able to complete his return to play programme in time to take part in the remainder of the T20I series.
"Aiden Markram is healthy and well and has been cleared to return home to look after his mental and emotional well-being after isolation in a local facility, as required when individual tests positive on tour," the statement read. The CSA further informed that a decision on wicket-keeper batter Quinton de Kock's availability for the remaining two matches will be made in due course after the medical team will examine his condition.
"Quinton de Kock has made a marked improvement in his recovery from a wrist injury. The Proteas' medical staff will continue to assess his progress and make a decision on his availability for match four in due course," Cricket South Africa informed.
Speaking of the bilateral series, South Africa lead the series by 2-1 after outplaying the hosts in the first two matches.
After India posted a mammoth 211/4 in the first T20 internationals, unbeaten knocks from Rassie van der Dussen (75 off 46) and David Miller (64 off 31) stitched a match-winning partnership to chase down the total in 19.1 overs.
Meanwhile, India's poor batting in the second match handed the game to South Africa after the hosts were restricted at 148/6 in 20 overs, while wicket-keeper batter Heinrich Klaasen's 81 in just 46 deliveries stole the show as the visitors took a 2-0 lead in the series.
However, India bounced back in the third match as they defeated South Africa by 48 runs on the back of an outstanding bowling display from Harshal Patel (4 wickets) and Yuzvendra Chahal (3 wickets).