PRETORIA – Titans paceman Corbin Bosch has been called up to replace Lungi Ngidi in the Tshwane Spartans squad after the Proteas star was ruled out for three months through injury.
Ngidi sustained ligament damage during South Africa’s recent T20 International against Australia, and will also miss the visit of Pakistan.
“Lungi fell awkwardly while fielding during the T20I against Australia last Sunday,” Proteas team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said.
“He underwent investigations and further assessments with knee specialists upon his return to South Africa, which revealed a significant ligament injury to the right knee.
“Due to the significant nature of the injury, he will require a minimum of 12 weeks of rest and rehabilitation to make a successful return to play.”
For Bosch, who missed out in the draft, the call-up to the Mzansi Super League T20 competition is a dream come true.
“I’ve barely been able to sleep over the last few days. It was disappointing to miss out in the draft, but this makes it all the more special,” he explained.
The 24-year-old all-rounder was part of the victorious South African Under-19 side that won the ICC Junior World Cup in 2014, and was named Man of the Match in the final against Pakistan after claiming 4/15.
More recently, Bosch has had limited playing time this season due to a foot injury but has been bowling regularly at Titans training sessions, and has the added bonus of going into an environment that he is very familiar with, given the Titans-heavy mix at the Spartans.
“It is the best possible franchise for me to play for. I play at Centurion, and work with all the coaches. It’s the best environment for me, so it really has worked out nicely.”
NEWS: Corbin Bosch named as @NgidiLungi's replacement. #MSLT20 #BornOfUs #VanOns #TsaRona
Full story: https://t.co/qCa7dyi37f pic.twitter.com/fYz3XJzxGx
— Tshwane Spartans (@SpartansMSLT20) November 23, 2018
Bosch had his first practice with the team on Friday morning, and said he is ready and willing to do whatever is required over the next three weeks.
“I’m here to learn. I’m just so thrilled to be a part of the squad, and working with some great players. It is up to the coaches if I play or not, and that would obviously be a bonus.”
The Spartans’ next fixture is at home to the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants on Sunday.