SA vs SL 2024: Wiaan Mulder ruled out with fractured finger, Matthew Breetzke named replacement

The South African cricket team has been dealt with a blow as all-rounder Wiaan Mulder is set to miss the remainder of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka due to a fractured right middle finger. The 26-year-old sustained the injury during the first Test in Durban.

On day two of the opening Test, Mulder played a defensive shot in 27th over, bowled by Lahiru Kumara, which went wrong as the ball nipped back sharply and jammed his fingers against the bat handle.

The medical team quickly assessed Mulder, with the over extending to an unexpected 10 minutes. After facing two more balls in which he even hit a six off Dhananjaya de Silva, Mulder had to retire hurt. X-rays conducted during the lunch interval confirmed the fracture.

Also Read: 19-wicket day ends with South Africa on top against Sri Lanka on Day 2

Matthew Breetzke has been named as the replacement player

The selectors have turned to Matthew Breetzke as Mulder's replacement. Breetzke will join the squad for the second Test, scheduled to take place at St George's Park in Gqeberha from December 5-9. 

The team which had initially planned a four-seam, one-spinner attack, now requires some modifications, with Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee forming the seam attack, and Keshav Maharaj as the lone specialist spinner. While Breetzke comes in, the team still has the option of Aiden Markram's off-spin as a potential bowling alternative.

Meanwhile, in the first Test so far, the hosts hold a strong position in the Test match and are currently batting in their second innings. The side is looking to extend their lead and give the visitors a challenging total.