New Zealand Cricket announced the replacement: Kateen Clark, who shifts from standby duties for later games to immediate action. This reshuffle comes amid a turbulent start to the series, with the hosts stumbling to a seven-wicket defeat in Mount Maunganui.

Recapping the incident: During Sunday’s game, Jacobs collapsed while fielding, clutching his knee in pain. Medical staff rushed him off, and detailed imaging showed the damage – a bone bruise requiring more evaluation before any comeback.

Adding to the injury list is Ish Sodhi, whose thumb fracture from a training session ends his series participation. No direct replacement for the spinner, but Lockie Ferguson’s return offers some pace relief.

Series schedule heats up with Tuesday’s showdown in Hamilton, then Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. South Africa, buoyed by their first-win momentum, poses a stern test. Can New Zealand regroup without key personnel? The Black Caps’ depth will be scrutinized as they aim to claw back in this marquee bilateral showdown.