South Africa's preparations for their upcoming One Day International series against Australia have suffered another setback after fast bowler Lungi Ngidi was ruled out with a right hamstring injury.

Cricket South Africa confirmed on Friday that Ngidi will miss the three match ODI series, which begins in Durban on September 24.

The injury further weakens South Africa's pace attack, with Kagiso Rabada and Ottneil Baartman already ruled out of the series because of hamstring problems.

Ngidi experienced discomfort while playing in a domestic first class match this week before undergoing scans on Wednesday.

Cricket South Africa said the fast bowler will now undergo rehabilitation.

THREE FAST BOWLERS NOW SIDELINED

Ngidi's withdrawal means South Africa will face Australia without three of their fast bowling options.

Rabada had already been ruled out of the ODI series after reporting a hamstring problem.

Baartman was subsequently withdrawn after suffering a left hamstring injury during the opening round of South Africa's domestic first class season.

Ngidi has now joined them on the injury list.

The series is an important part of South Africa's preparations for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, which the country will co host alongside Zimbabwe and Namibia.

NQOBANI MOKOENA CALLED UP

South Africa have called up 20 year old seamer Nqobani Mokoena to replace Ngidi.

Mokoena made his ODI debut during South Africa's recent series against Namibia.

He featured in two matches during that series and took one wicket.

His inclusion provides the young fast bowler with another opportunity at international level against one of world cricket's strongest teams.

COETZEE AND JANSEN ALSO BROUGHT IN

South Africa have already been forced to make other changes to their bowling attack.

Gerald Coetzee was recalled to the ODI squad for the first time in nearly three years as Rabada's replacement.

Duan Jansen was brought into the squad after Baartman was ruled out.

The Proteas still have several pace options available, including Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kwena Maphaka, Coetzee, Duan Jansen and Mokoena.

Temba Bavuma will captain the side.

THREE MATCH SERIES STARTS IN DURBAN

South Africa and Australia will play three ODIs beginning on September 24.

The opening match will take place in Durban before the teams travel to Johannesburg for the second ODI on September 27.

The final match is scheduled for Potchefstroom on September 30.

The ODI series will be followed by a three match Test series beginning on October 9.

Ngidi's availability for the Test series will be assessed closer to the start of the matches as he continues his rehabilitation.

Rabada and Baartman could also remain in contention for the Test series depending on their recovery.

South Africa will now hope to avoid further injuries as the team prepares for a demanding period of international cricket against Australia.