Philander will not feature in the first two Tests against England

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

South Africa pace bowler Vernon Philander will miss the first two Tests against England as he continues to recover from an ankle injury.

Philander tore ligaments in his left ankle while playing football with his team-mates prior to the second Test against India in Bangalore last month.

Philander’s absence could see Kyle Abbott continue to occupy his spot on the roster. Abbott played in two of the four Test matches against India and picked up six wickets at an average of 17.50.

Meanwhile, Proteas manager Mohammed Moosajee revealed that pace spearhead Dale Steyn could be available for the first Test against England on Boxing Day in Durban.

However, before Steyn is picked, he will have to undergo a fitness test and may be required to play his first domestic four-day game in six years.

Steyn is set to represent the Cape Cobras in their Sunfoil Series match against the Knights at Newlands from December 17.