Proteas opening batsman Aiden Markram has been ruled out of this week’s third and final Test against India in Ranchi.

Markram has been sidelined by a wrist injury sustained during last week’s second Test in Pune.

‘The injury took place following the opener’s dismissal in the second innings of the match. In a moment of frustration with his own performance, he lashed out at a solid object, resulting in his injury,’ read a statement from Cricket South Africa.

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Team doctor Hashendra Ramjee added: ‘A scan of Aiden’s wrist showed a fracture involving the wrist bones. The medical team has therefore ruled him out of the next Test match against India. Arrangements have been made for him to see a specialist on his return to South Africa for further management of the injury.’

Markram has since left India for South Africa – and won’t be replaced in the squad. The talented right-hander’s last nine Test innings have yielded just 182 runs. This lowly number was accentuated by twin ducks in Pune.

‘It’s sad to be going home on this note and I completely understand what I’ve done wrong and take full accountability for it. It’s unacceptable in a Proteas environment and to let the team down is what hurts me the most,’ he said.

‘I’ve learned a lot from this and the other players I’m sure, have learned from it as well. We understand in sport that emotions run high and sometimes the frustration gets the better of you as it did for me, but like I said, it’s no excuse.

I’ve taken full responsibility for it, I have apologised to the team and hopefully I can make it up to them and the people of South Africa soon.’

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