The uncapped George Linde has been added to the Proteas’ squad for next week’s third and final Test at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi.

Linde has replaced fellow left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who has been sidelined by a right shoulder injury during this week’s second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

‘An MRI scan revealed that Keshav has sustained an injury to a muscle in his right shoulder which was strapped in order for him to bat on Saturday. He was reassessed on Sunday morning, particularly with regards to bowling, and he showed significant discomfort in this latter discipline,’ said Proteas team doctor Team Doctor Ramjee Hashendra.

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‘Based on Sunday morning’s assessment and the findings of the scan, the medical team feel he will not be fit in time for the next Test match in six days’ time. The nature and extent of the injury would mean that he will probably return to play in 14 to 21 days based on his progress during the rehabilitation phase.’

Cape Cobras all-rounder Linde was a late inclusion in the Proteas T20I series squad against that preceded the Tests, but did not play a match.

He recently recorded career-best first-class match figures of 11/131 against the Lions at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.

‘When I saw the wicket, I knew it was spin-friendly, but I knew that I would still have to work hard for my wickets. I knew though, that if I found a good rhythm, I could target a big match haul of wickets,’ added Linde.

‘Luckily I did take 11 wickets in the game, but I could have done better. There were a few overs I struggled for rhythm and consistency, but if you told me before the game that 11/131 will be my match figures, I would have taken it.

‘I’m very pleased with myself for my best ever first-class figures. Now I just have to kick on and try and win games for the Cobras.’

Photo: Gallo Images