Philander fitness a concern for Proteas

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South Africa could be without Vernon Philander for the second Test with New Zealand after the seamer experienced hamstring stiffness in the series-opener at Newlands.

Philander was chiefly responsible for New Zealand’s embarrassing first-innings total of 45 on day one in Cape Town as he returned magnificent figures of 5-7.

However, he left the field later in the game and could now miss the second match at Port Elizabeth.

South Africa team manager Mohammed Moosajee told ESPNCricinfo: “He said he slipped in the footholes and, because his left leg is his landing foot in his delivery stride, when he stretches too far forward with it, it could affect the area again.”

Philander was considered a doubt for the Newlands Test and no chances will be taken with his fitness.

“With Tests so close together management may not want to risk playing Vernon, but we also don’t want to take a call too early,” Moosajee added.

“What we don’t want is for it to become three strains in three weeks - then he is out for a month.”