South Africa’s Top 5 Replacements For Lungi Ngidi In Champions Trophy 2025

The Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and South Africa is facing a major challenge with their squad. Lungi Ngidi, a key fast bowler, is struggling with fitness issues, casting doubt on his participation. With Anrich Nortje already ruled out due to injury, South Africa must find reliable replacements to strengthen their bowling attack. Here are five players who could step up and fill Ngidi’s shoes in the upcoming tournament.

Lungi Ngidi’s fitness concerns have opened the door for potential replacements.
Kwena Maphaka and Ottniel Baartman offer youth and reliability.
Gerald Coetzee and Corbin Bosch bring experience and all-round skills.
George Linde provides a spin option and batting depth.

1. Kwena Maphaka: The Rising Star

Kwena Maphaka emerged as a standout performer in the U19 World Cup 2024, showcasing his raw pace and wicket-taking ability. He made his ODI debut against Pakistan in December 2024, taking five wickets in just two matches. His impressive start in both ODIs and T20Is has made him one of South Africa’s most promising young talents.

Maphaka’s ability to challenge batters with his speed and accuracy makes him a strong candidate to replace Ngidi. His early success in international cricket suggests he could handle the pressure of a high-stakes tournament like the Champions Trophy.

At just 18 years old, Maphaka represents the future of South African cricket. His inclusion in the squad would not only address the immediate need for a fast bowler but also provide valuable experience for the young pacer on a global stage.

2. Ottniel Baartman: The Reliable Performer

Ottniel Baartman brings experience from the T20 World Cup 2024, where he took six wickets in five matches with an economy rate of 4.94. His ability to bowl effectively in all phases of the game makes him a versatile option for South Africa.

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Baartman has also performed well in ODIs, claiming six wickets at an average of 16.83. In the ongoing SA20 2025, he has taken eight wickets in eight matches, proving his consistency. His recent ODI appearance against Pakistan, where he picked up two wickets, further strengthens his case.

With his steady performances and ability to adapt to different formats, Baartman is a strong contender to replace Ngidi. His inclusion would add depth to South Africa’s bowling attack.

3. Gerald Coetzee: The Wicket-Taking Machine

Gerald Coetzee has already established himself as a key player in South Africa’s bowling lineup. With 31 wickets in 14 ODIs, including a standout performance in the 2023 World Cup, Coetzee has proven his ability to deliver in crucial moments.

Despite facing injury setbacks during the Test series against Sri Lanka and the SA20, Coetzee is expected to recover in time for the Champions Trophy. Initially omitted from the squad, he could now replace Nortje and potentially fill Ngidi’s spot if needed.

Coetzee’s aggressive bowling style and knack for taking wickets make him a valuable asset. His inclusion would provide South Africa with a proven match-winner in their quest for the Champions Trophy title.

4. George Linde: The Spin Option

George Linde offers a different dimension to South Africa’s bowling attack as a left-arm spinner. Although his last ODI appearance was in 2021, he recently impressed in the T20I series against Pakistan, taking five wickets in two matches.

Linde’s experience in domestic cricket and his ability to contribute with the bat lower down the order make him a versatile option. His inclusion would provide South Africa with an additional spin option, which could be crucial on slower pitches.

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While not a like-for-like replacement for Ngidi, Linde’s all-round skills could add balance to the squad. His recent performances suggest he is ready to step up if called upon.

5. Corbin Bosch: The All-Rounder

Corbin Bosch is another strong candidate to replace Ngidi. He made his ODI debut against Pakistan, taking one wicket, and also impressed in his Test debut with five wickets in two innings.

Bosch has been in excellent form in the SA20 2025, taking eight wickets in six matches for MI Cape Town. His ability to bowl effectively in the middle overs and contribute with the bat makes him a valuable asset.

With his domestic experience and recent performances, Bosch could be a reliable replacement for Ngidi. His inclusion would add depth to both the bowling and batting departments.

Connecting the Dots to Champions Trophy 2025

The Champions Trophy 2025 is a crucial tournament for South Africa, and the team’s success will depend on their ability to adapt to challenges like injuries. The potential replacements for Lungi Ngidi—Kwena Maphaka, Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, George Linde, and Corbin Bosch—each bring unique strengths to the table.

South Africa’s selectors will need to carefully evaluate these options to ensure the team remains competitive. The right choice could make all the difference in their quest for glory in the Champions Trophy.

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