Just weeks before the start of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on February 7, 2026, the South African team has suffered a major setback. Hard-hitting all-rounder Donovan Ferreira has sustained a serious shoulder injury, putting his participation in the marquee tournament under serious doubt.

How Did Donovan Ferreira Get Injured?

Ferreira picked up the injury during an SA20 league match on January 17, while representing the Johannesburg Super Kings against Pretoria Capitals.

The incident occurred when Ferreira dived near the cover boundary in an attempt to stop a ball. He immediately appeared in discomfort after landing on his shoulder. Despite the injury, he came out to bat later in the innings but was forced to retire hurt after facing just one delivery.

According to reports from ESPNcricinfo, medical scans have confirmed a shoulder fracture.

World Cup Participation in Serious Doubt

The fracture has already ruled Ferreira out of the remainder of the SA20 season. More importantly, it has raised serious concerns over his availability for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Shoulder fractures typically require extended recovery and rehabilitation. If the injury is severe, Ferreira is unlikely to regain full match fitness in time for the global tournament, significantly increasing the chances of him missing the World Cup altogether.

Who Could Replace Ferreira?

If Donovan Ferreira is officially ruled out, the biggest beneficiary could be Ryan Rickelton. The wicketkeeper-batsman is currently not part of South Africa’s World Cup squad but is widely seen as the frontrunner for a replacement call-up.

Why Rickelton Is a Strong Contender

Rickelton’s form in the SA20 has been outstanding. He is currently the leading run-scorer of the tournament, with:

• 337 runs in 9 innings

• Two centuries

• Strike rate above 156

• 24 sixes

His explosive batting at the top of the order and ability to keep wickets make him a like-for-like option who fits South Africa’s aggressive T20 template.

What This Means for South Africa

Ferreira’s potential absence would be a major blow, given his power-hitting and all-round value in the middle order. At the same time, Rickelton’s red-hot form presents the selectors with a ready replacement who is already match-sharp.