Proteas fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the Test series against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour by Pakistan, due to a groin injury.

The 28-year-old recently underwent a medical assessment as part of his structured conditioning period, during which scans revealed bilateral proximal adductor tendinopathy.

He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and is expected to return to play in January.

Meanwhile, Test captain Temba Bavuma is making positive progress in his recovery from a left elbow injury and will undergo a fitness test on Monday to determine his availability for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which starts in Durban on 27 November.

Photo: Daniel Prentice/Gallo Images