South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder has been ruled out of bowling and fielding duties for the remainder of the Durban Test against Sri Lanka after fracturing his right middle finger during his first-innings knock. A final decision on whether he will bat again will depend on the match's progression.
The injury occurred during the 27th over of South Africa’s innings, when Lahiru Kumara delivered a ball that jagged back sharply. As Mulder attempted to defend, his fingers were jammed against the bat handle. After receiving on-field treatment during a prolonged 10-minute over, he faced two more deliveries—blocking a yorker and leaving the last ball—before retiring hurt. Mulder returned later, with South Africa nine wickets down, and scored an unbeaten 9, including a bold six off Dhananjaya de Silva.
An x-ray taken during the lunch break confirmed the fracture, with Ryan Rickelton stepping in as a substitute fielder. Mulder’s absence disrupts South Africa’s bowling strategy, leaving them with three seamers—Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee—and a lone specialist spinner in Keshav Maharaj. If needed, Aiden Markram could provide offspin support.
The injury also raises doubts about Mulder's availability for the next Test, scheduled for Thursday in Gqeberha. South Africa’s 14-member squad may look to replace him with spin-bowling all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy, who could be a valuable option on his home ground at St George’s Park, or bring in seamer Dane Paterson. Rickelton remains the reserve batter in the squad.
Mulder’s absence leaves South Africa with a tactical challenge, forcing them to adapt their plans as they aim to maintain their strong position in the series.