De Swardt ruled out of T20 due to injury

The Hollywoodbets Dolphins will begin their season next week with the CSA T20 Challenge, however they will be without allrounder Ruan de Swardt who underwent back surgery.

De Swardt has been battling with back pain and underwent Lumbar surgery on Wednesday which will see him out of action for an expected two to three months.

The 24 year-old had a repeat lumbar spine injury that he picked up during training which required surgery. It is a loss for the Dolphins going into what will be another exciting and jam-packed season.

"You never want to lose a player to injury on the eve of the season but we're confident that Ruan will make a strong recovery," Hollywoodbets Dolphins coach Imraan Khan said.

"He's an important part of the team both on and off the field and we will support him on the road to full fitness.

"We know that he'll be right behind the team during the season and we look forward to welcoming him back when he's ready to play again."

CEO of KZN Cricket Heinrich Strydom echoed the sentiments of Khan, focusing on the character of De Swardt as he begins the rehabilitation phase post-surgery.

"It's always a set-back when a player requires surgery for an injury, however we know that Ruan is a determined person and will be back stronger than before," Strydom said.

"From everyone here at KZN Cricket we wish him well in his recovery."