SA vs AUS: Keshav Maharaj returns to South Africa squad amidst absence of key players

After being smashed and facing a humiliating defeat by the Aussies in the opener of the series South Africa are looking to make a comeback as they are all set to face them in the second T20I of the series.

In a recent development, it's been revealed that Keshav Maharaj, the experienced left-arm spinner, has been given the green light for selection after being out of the team due to injury. On the other side, the squad faces the absence of key players like Sisanda Magala and Wayne Parnell, while Marco Jansen will miss matches for a different reason.

Keshav Maharaj's return to the white-ball squads comes as a sigh of relief for South Africa. His absence from international cricket since March due to an injury had left a void that needed filling. However, the recent statement by Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirms his availability from the second T20I onwards. His successful participation in a pre-season 50-over match has raised hopes for the team, especially after their disappointing 111-run loss to Australia in the first T20I.

"He has progressed positively and he is ahead of where we thought he would be, so things look positive,” a CSA official said regarding Maharaj as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

On the other side, Sisanda Magala has been ruled of the second T20I due to a left knee injury. CSA's medical team will continue to manage his condition, with hopes of his return for the third T20I. Wayne Parnell who is facing a left shoulder injury, is also not going to take part in the series.. This leaves the team with limited fast-bowling options, especially after Marco Jansen was released from the squad to attend his sister's wedding.

The absence of Jansen, who played in the first T20I, further narrows the pool of quick bowlers in the squad. As the series against Australia goes ahead, South Africa will have to rely on a mix of experienced players like Maharaj and young talents to overcome their bowling limitations.