South Africa pacer Vernon Philander injured, doubtful for second Test

Vernon Philander being carried away from the field by support staff

South African fast bowler Vernon Philander twisted his left knee during a warm-up football game and could potentially miss the Bangalore Test against India starting Saturday. It will be a huge blow for South Africa if he is ruled out.

Philander was seen hobbling in visible distress, and had to hold on to the shoulders of two members of the support staff. The support staff then had to carry him back all the way to the dressing room.

With Dale Steyn too all but ruled out of the second Test due to a groin strain, Philander's injury will leave South Africa with just two frontline quicks in their attack - Kagiso Rabada and Morne Morkel. South Africa are trailing the four-test series by 0-1, after India secured a thumping 108-run victory at the Mohali Test. The Proteas have comfortably won the Twenty20 (T20) and One-Day International (ODI) series.

Morkel had injured himself during the ODI series but is definitely available after recovering from a quad strain He will be called upon to replace Steyn as the spearhead of the seam bowling attack.

In more positive developments for the Proteas, JP Duminy has also recovered from his hand injury and will be eligible for selection in the playing XI. Duminy had the stitches removed from the cut on his right hand and has joined the training sessions.

With Duminy’s availability, either of Simon Harmer or Imran Tahir are likely to miss out on a spot in the XI for the Bangalore Test – with some firepower added to the batting strength as well.

In a tour that is meant to last for 72 days, the injuries were bound to happen.

More to follow...

Update on Vernon Philander injury. He fell awkwardly on his left ankle during warm-ups. Has been taken for scans for further assessment

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) November 12, 2015