Nandre Burger ruled out of remainder of MLC 2026; Texas Super Kings name replacement

Texas Super Kings (TSK) have suffered a major setback in their Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 campaign after South African fast bowler Nandre Burger was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament because of a pre-existing stress reaction in his back.

The injury concern comes at a crucial stage of the competition and could also raise worries for South Africa ahead of a packed international schedule later this year.

Nandre Burger ruled out of MLC 2026

Burger featured in two matches for Texas Super Kings this season, claiming one wicket while maintaining an economy rate of 6.66 across six overs. However, the left-arm pacer will play no further part in the tournament after medical assessments confirmed the back issue.

The setback could have wider implications for South African cricket, with the Proteas set to host Australia in a busy home season that includes three ODIs and three Test matches beginning in September.

Dian Forrester named replacement

Texas Super Kings have signed fellow South African Dian Forrester as Burger’s replacement for the remainder of MLC 2026.

The 26-year-old all-rounder is already familiar with the Super Kings setup, having previously worked under head coach Stephen Fleming at Joburg Super Kings in SA20 and Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.

Forrester also spent time with Chennai Super Kings during IPL 2026 after joining the franchise as a replacement player following his stint in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Texas Super Kings struggling in MLC 2026

TSK have endured a difficult start to their MLC 2026 campaign. The franchise is currently second from bottom in the six-team standings, managing just one victory from their opening three matches.

The team has also been without regular captain Faf du Plessis, who missed the previous match against MI New York due to a back spasm. In his absence, Donnovan Ferreira led the side.

Texas Super Kings will now look to bounce back when they face San Francisco Unicorns in Oakland as they aim to revive their playoff hopes.

Key Highlights

• Nandre Burger has been ruled out of the rest of MLC 2026 due to a stress reaction in his back.
• The South African pacer played two matches for Texas Super Kings this season.
• Dian Forrester has been signed as Burger’s replacement.
• Forrester has previously worked with Stephen Fleming in SA20 and IPL setups.
• Texas Super Kings currently have one win from three matches in MLC 2026.