Philander, who has been a revelation since his elevation to the Proteas side with four five-wicket hauls in three Tests – including the innings win over Sri Lanka last week – hurt his knee in the nets ahead of Monday’s match.

Team manager Mohammed Moosajee confirmed the injury but said the management will give Philander time to prove he is ready for action.

“He came off and received the necessary treatment from the physiotherapist, including icing and strapping,” Moosajee told Cricinfo.

“He will be treated overnight and he will come and bowl tomorrow once some of the swelling and inflammation settles. If anything untoward happens we will decide.

“Right now we are confident he will be ready for the Test.”

Reserve paceman Lonwabo Tsotsobe is himself not fully fit following a muscle strain.