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In a shocking turn of events, South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has been ruled out for the remainder of the three-match one-day internationals against England. The 26-year-old sustained a concussion following a collision with Keshav Maharaj while fielding during the first ODI at Riverside Ground in Durham on Tuesday.
Notably, Phehlukwayo was replaced by Dwaine Pretorious during the series opener. According to Proteas team doctor, Dr Hashendra Ramjee, Andile has been closely monitored and is showing signs of improvement. "He will commence his concussion return with rehabilitation programme,” Ramjee was quoted in a statement released by CSA.
Speaking of the match, the Proteas won the first ODI by 62 runs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. While batting first, South Africa scored mammoth 333-5 in 50-overs on the back of Van der Dussen's 134 and 77 from Aiden Markram in the first innings. Proteas opener Janneman Malan hit a half-century as he added 57 runs off 77 deliveries.
England's red-ball skipper Ben Stokes, who played his last ODI match had a forgettable day as he conceded 44 runs in five overs, and returned with no wicket. In response, England had a flying start as openers added 102 runs for the first wicket. Jason Roy (43 off 62), Jonny Bairstow (63 off 71) and Joe Root (86 off 71) starred with bat as they made valuable contribution during the run-chase but lacked of support from middle-order batters which cost hosts the game.
Proteas pacer Anrich Nortje picked four-wickets in the second innings, while Tabraiz Shamsi and Aiden Markram returned with two wickets each. Rassie van der Dussen was rewarded with Player of the Match for his outstanding ton in the series opener.
Both the teams will face each other in the second one-day international on Friday (22 July) at Emirates Old Trafford followed by final match of the series scheduled to take place on Sunday (July 24). The bilateral contest is comprised of three T20Is followed by as many as Test matches.