Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj has been ruled out of the second Test against Zimbabwe.

The captain for the series sustained a left groin strain while batting on day three of the first Test. He will return home for further assessment to determine the extent of the injury.

Senuran Muthusamy has been named as his replacement, while all-rounder Wiaan Mulder will lead the side in the second Test, which begins on Saturday, 6 July.

Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, who was set to join the squad on Wednesday, has been released to give the seamers who impressed in the first Test another opportunity to build on their performances.

Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket