Proteas brace for Ngidi blow ahead of 2nd NZ Test

The Proteas are bracing for the likelihood of going into their second and series-deciding Test against New Zealand in Christchurch on Friday without fast bowler Lungi Ngidi. 

The 25-year-old missed the first Test, which saw South Africa thrashed by an innings and 276 runs, with a back strain, and the word out of the Proteas camp is that he is "not looking good" in his efforts to recover for the second Test. 

Ngidi was superb for the Proteas in their recently-completed series triumph over India, where he took 15 wickets in the series at a stunning average of just 15.00 and he has become a key member of the South African attack in all formats. 

With Ngidi ruled out, Glenton Stuurman earned a Test debut, but struggled and carded figures of 1/124 in the first Test. 

There are, however, other options for the Proteas if Ngidi misses out again. 

Spinner Keshav Maharaj could be an attractive option given the Proteas' inability to control proceedings at the Hagley Oval last week, while allrounder Wiaan Mulder and speedster Lutho Sipamla are also in the travelling squad.  

Ngidi will undergo a fitness test in the coming days. 

Play on Friday starts at 00:00 (SA time).