Zondeki to replace Langeveldt

Monde Zondeki, the fast bowler, will replace Charl Langeveldt in South Africa's Test squad for India.

Langeveldt had opted out of the Test series, upset by the controversy surrounding his selection for the tour to India. His inclusion ahead of Andre Nel was seen by many as pandering to Cricket South Africa's transformation policy.

With Zondeki replacing Langeveldt, the 14-man squad still has five players of colour. Zondeki, who made his debut in 2003, has only played five Tests for South Africa, the last of which was against West Indies in 2005. Injuries have often plagued him, but the bowler has been in red-hot form in South Africa's domestic circuit this season: he's the leading wicket-taker in first-class cricket, with 62 wickets at an average of 19.16. He's also Warwickshire's overseas signing for the 2008 season.

"Monde has shown outstanding form this season to establish himself as the leading bowler in the domestic game. His form for the South African A side has also been outstanding," Joubert Strydom, the convenor of selectors, said. "He has made a good recovery from the injury that sidelined him for part of the MTN Domestic Championship campaign and is back to full match fitness."

The South African team leaves for India on Friday, barring Robin Peterson, who will join the squad later. They will play three Tests beginning with the first in Chennai on March 26.