South Africa faces a major challenge ahead of the third ODI against Pakistan as fast bowler Ottneil Baartman has been ruled out due to a knee injury. The 27-year-old sustained the injury during his run-up before the second ODI, leading the team management to rest him. Despite hopes of recovery, Baartman’s condition worsened, making him unavailable for the series finale at Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, December 22.
Baartman, who delivered an impressive 2/37 in the series opener, is the latest in a string of injuries to hit South Africa’s bowling lineup. He joins a growing list of sidelined fast bowlers, including Gerald Coetzee, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, and Anrich Nortje, further depleting the team’s resources.
This is South Africa’s second major setback in the series after Keshav Maharaj was ruled out before the first match. Pakistan has already secured the series with two dominant victories, leaving the hosts aiming to avoid a clean sweep in the upcoming pink ODI. The match also serves as an opportunity for South Africa to regain momentum ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
To bolster their bowling attack, South Africa has called up Corbin Bosch, who may make his ODI debut. Bosch’s inclusion offers a fresh option for a team struggling with injuries.
Despite this setback, Baartman is expected to return to action during the SA20 2025 tournament, representing the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. For now, South Africa must push forward without him, focusing on ending the series on a high note as they prepare for the challenges ahead, including a tri-series involving Pakistan and New Zealand before the Champions Trophy.
