ICC World Cup 2019: Lungi Ngidi Clears Fitness Test Ahead of New Zealand Tie

Finally, some good news has come for the South African team as Lungi Ngidi is declared 100% fit for the clash against New Zealand. The fast bowler who bowled only four overs against Bangladesh in South Africa’s second World Cup match was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Now, Ngidi has cleared the fitness test ahead of the match and he is available for selection.

Thus, South Africa can breathe a sigh of relief as Ngidi can play a crucial role for the Proteas. South Africa got off to the most horrid start as they lost their opening three matches. Furthermore, their match against the West Indies was called off. Faf du Plessis-led side was able to register their first win of the tournament when they defeated Afghanistan by nine wickets (DLS method).

Big boost for South Africa.

South Africa has been hit hard by injury woes as their experienced fast bowler Dale Steyn was ruled out with a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, Lungi Ngidi himself confirmed his availability for the match against New Zealand.

“I just finished a fitness today and I passed that. So I’m match-fit ready,” Ngidi said. “It’s 100%. That’s how a fitness test goes. If you are not bowling at 100%, then you are not ready to play, so today was as hard as I could go in match intensity. That’s all that I can bring to the game as well, and that’s what is expected.”

South Africa is in a do or die situation and they need to win all the remaining four matches to qualify for the last four of the tournament. Hence, Lungi Ngidi return is a big boost for the side.

South Africa will play their sixth match of the World Cup against New Zealand at Edgbaston, Birmingham on 19th June. Consequently, Lungi Ngidi will like to deliver the goods for the Rainbow nation.