Tuesday 24 February 2015 07:14, UK
South Africa seamer Vernon Philander has been ruled out of Friday’s World Cup Pool B match against West Indies after suffering a mild hamstring strain.
The 29-year-old picked up the injury during the Proteas' 130-run defeat to India in Melbourne on Sunday, when he managed to bowl just four overs.
Scans have confirmed a "grade one strain" which means Philander will be unable to feature against the Windies and he is also rated doubtful for next week's clash with Ireland in Canberra.
"The recovery period for a hamstring strain normally takes a week to 10 days which makes him unavailable for the match against the West Indies in Sydney on Friday," South Africa team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said.
"The Ireland match, as we speak, is eight days away. With the recovery period being a week to 10 days, we have to give him every opportunity to make sure that he can be available.
"At the same time we don't want to be foolish by taking short-cuts, we will go through the usual treatment protocols and the return-to-play protocols. If he passes all the fitness tests and is symptom free going into the Ireland game he may play but at this stage it is too early to tell."
Philander’s place in the side is likely to be taken by Kyle Abbott, who has played only 11 one-day internationals.
