Canberra – South Africa’s injured duo Vernon Philander and JP Duminy could be forced to remain on the sidelines for the second consecutive World Cup match at the Manuka Oval.
Philander and Duminy missed the victory over the West Indies at the SCG last weekend with hamstring and side strain problems respectively, and, despite undergoing heavy rehabilitation since, may still not be ready for the Pool B clash with Ireland.
Duminy, however, batted in the nets yesterday at the ground.
It is believed the left-hander could be ready to play but South Africa are loath to risk him with the tournament still a long way to go.
Philander, though, has progressed to running but has still not delivered a ball in anger since leaving the MCG midway through the match against India seven days go and could require more time to recover fully.
“They’re improving with physiotherapy treatment and rehab but it’s still too early to commit on their availability, especially due to the sensitivity of their respective injuries. We will continue to re-assess them today and tomorrow,” South Africa team doctor Mohammed Moosajee said yesterday.
It is likely South Africa will field the same starting XI that thrashed the Windies in Sydney, with captain AB de Villiers also having recovered from the gastro virus that troubled him on Friday morning. - The Star