Proteas opening batsman Aiden Markram is still in doubt for the first Test against England, which will be played at SuperSport Park in Centurion from 26 December 2019.

Markram has been sidelined by a wrist injury sustained during the recent tour of India, where the Proteas sunk to a heavy 3-0 series defeat.

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‘The injury took place following the opener’s dismissal in the second innings of the Pune Test. In a moment of frustration with his own performance, he lashed out at a solid object, resulting in his injury,’ read a statement from Cricket South Africa at the time.

The injury was assessed by an orthopaedic surgeon last week and Markram’s wrist has been put in a cast for six weeks.

He has been ruled out of the Paarl Rocks’ Mzansi Super League campaign. Cape Cobras wicketkeeper-batsman Kyle Verreynne has replaced him in the Rocks’ squad.

‘I’ve learned a lot from this and the other players, I’m sure, have learned from it as well. We understand in sport that emotions run high and sometimes the frustration gets the better of you as it did for me, but like I said, it’s no excuse,’ said Markram.

‘I’ve taken full responsibility for it, I have apologised to the team and hopefully I can make it up to them and the people of South Africa soon.’

The right-handed Markram will likely be afforded the opportunity to prove match fitness during the Titan’s 4-Day Franchise Series fixture against the Lions at the Wanderers in Johannesburg from 19 December.

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