Ngam will not be replaced: UCB

The injured Mfuneko Ngam will not be replaced in the South Africa squad to tour New Zealand, the United Cricket Board (UCB) said on Friday.

The fast bowler was ruled out of the tour with a stress fracture of the left shin.

"Ngam underwent an MRI scan to his left leg in Port Elizabeth on Thursday," a UCB media release said.

"The scan revealed changes to the left tibia consistent with a grade two stress fracture.

"Ngam experienced stiffness in his left calf while with the national squad earlier this week.

"Ngam was selected for both the one-day international and Test squads, and the national selection panel has decided not to replace Ngam for the tour."

Ngam's withdrawal is likely to lead to more opportunities for uncapped Albie Morkel, the fast bowler who did not play a match against West Indies after being included in the limited-overs squad.

Morkel retained his place for the tour to New Zealand.

Ngam has been dogged by stress fractures since announcing his rare talent by taking 11 wickets at 17.18 in three Tests against New Zealand and Sri Lanka in 2000-01.

He has not played a Test since, and has yet to make his one-day international debut.

Hopes were high in South African cricket circles that Ngam would overcome his injury problems.

He followed an intensive fitness and strengthening programme in the winter, and played three first-class and eight limited- overs matches for Eastern Province.

Ngam also played for South Africa 'A' in a one-day tour match against West Indies, taking two for 48.

South Africa leave for New Zealand on Saturday to play six one-day internationals and three Tests.