South Africa's camp is facing worrying injury concerns ahead of the second Test against India, with Simon Harmer, the hero of their Kolkata victory, reportedly sent to the hospital for scans. Reports indicate that Harmer is nursing a shoulder injury.

The timing of this injury is particularly concerning, especially after South Africa's historic 30-run win in Kolkata, which marked their first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years. Harmer was the standout performer in that match, claiming eight wickets, including a crucial 4 for 30 in India's first innings. His ability to exploit the turning conditions at Eden Gardens proved vital in dismantling the Indian batting lineup.

Adding to South Africa's woes, Marco Jansen is also reportedly under medical evaluation for a minor niggle. Jansen made significant contributions in the Kolkata Test, taking three wickets in the first innings and delivering crucial breakthroughs in the second, which helped defend a modest target of 124.

Both Harmer and Jansen were examined at Kolkata's Woodlands Hospital, the same facility where India captain Shubman Gill received treatment during the first Test. Gill was ruled out of the first Test due to a neck spasm.

If either Harmer or Jansen is ruled out for the second Test in Guwahati, South Africa's team composition will face a significant reshuffle. Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy are potential options to take on spin duties if Harmer is unavailable. In the pace attack, Corbin Bosch and Kagiso Rabada would need to shoulder extra responsibility. It is also to be noted that Rabada missed the first game due to a rib injury.

The absence of Jansen could particularly hurt the team, as he provides a unique left-arm angle that troubled the Indian batsmen in the first Test.

Harmer's potential absence is a major setback considering his recent workload. Since last month, the off-spinner has bowled 121.3 overs across six innings, significantly more than his fellow South Africans, with Keshav Maharaj bowling 79.1 overs.

The South African team management will closely monitor both players over the next few days before making a final decision on the playing XI. The second Test is scheduled to begin on November 22 in Guwahati.

In related news, after Shubman Gill, even some South African cricketers, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Marco Jansen, went up to the Woodlands hospital for a regular checkup before they leave Kolkata and advance to Guwahati for the second Test.