South Africa Suffer Injury Blow as Pretorius, Simelane Miss Zimbabwe Final

South Africa have been forced into two changes for the Namibia T20I tri-series final against Zimbabwe, with leading run-scorer Lhuan-dre Pretorius ruled out with a groin injury and fast bowler Andile Simelane sidelined by a side strain.

The Proteas chose to bat first after winning the toss, looking to build on their impressive form in the competition. South Africa defeated Zimbabwe by 11 runs in their previous match after posting 228 for four, a result that secured Zimbabwe's place in the final while eliminating Namibia.

South Africa have already beaten Zimbabwe twice in the series and will enter the final with plenty of confidence.

Pretorius' absence is a significant setback for South Africa, with the batter currently the leading run-scorer in the series. Connor Esterhuizen will retain his place at the top of the order and will open alongside Jordan Hermann. Tony de Zorzi has also been brought into the middle order.

Jason Smith, who was ruled out of the T20I series because of an adductor strain, has recovered and joined the squad in Namibia. However, he has not been selected for the final and is expected to be available for South Africa's three-match ODI series next week.

Simelane's absence leaves South Africa with a reshaped pace attack. Nqobani Mokoena, Kwena Maphaka, Eathan Bosch and Duan Jansen will share the fast-bowling responsibilities, while Bjorn Fortuin will lead the side.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have received a boost with Newman Nyamhuri recovering from a minor niggle and returning to the playing XI. The Zimbabweans have opted for a pace-heavy combination, with Brad Evans, Blessing Muzarabani and Kundai Matigimu joining Nyamhuri in the attack.

Wellington Masakadza has been left out of the XI.

Zimbabwe will be led by experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raza, with Brian Bennett and Ben Curran expected to provide an aggressive start at the top of the order. Innocent Kaia, Ryan Burl and Wessly Madhevere add further batting depth, while Tadiwanashe Marumani will take the gloves.

South Africa XI

Connor Esterhuizen (wk), Jordan Hermann, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann, Eathan Bosch, Duan Jansen, Bjorn Fortuin (capt), Prenelan Subrayen, Nqobani Mokoena, Kwena Maphaka.

Zimbabwe XI

Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Sikandar Raza (capt), Ryan Burl, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Blessing Muzarabani, Kundai Matigimu.