Williams replaces Maphaka as SA’s hamstring crisis intensifies

South Africa pace bowler Kwena Maphaka has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia due to a right hamstring strain. Lizaad Williams has been called up as his replacement in the squad. Maphaka joins fellow fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Ottneil Baartman, and Lungi Ngidi on South Africa's injury list, all sidelined by hamstring issues ahead of the opening match.

Baartman and Ngidi were previously replaced by Duan Jansen and Nqobani Mokoena in the 16-man squad. The three ODIs will take place in Durban, Johannesburg, and Potchefstroom on September 24, 27, and 30, with South Africa also monitoring the fitness of Rabada and Ngidi ahead of the three-match Test series starting October 9.