The second Castle Test starts at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead on Friday and the third Test at Sahara Park Newlands two weeks' later.
“Our medical team has established that Lonwabo Tsotsobe has suffered a torn cartilage injury to his right knee,” explained selection convener Mike Procter. “The medical committee feels that he should have surgery as soon as possible and this will take place towards the end of this week. We certainly could not risk him in a Test match.
“Monde Zondeki, who was in our Test squad in Australia, has also undergone surgery and both players will need about three months off to complete the rehabilitation process.
“Albie showed good form for the Titans at the weekend and is an experienced international cricketer,” added Procter.
“He gives us an extra seam bowling option if we want to follow that route.”
The squad will practise in Durban on Wednesday and Thursday ahead of Friday's match.
Proteas Castle Test squad: Graeme Smith (Nashua Cape Cobras, capt), Hashim Amla (Nashua Dolphins), Mark Boucher (Chevrolet Warriors, AB de Villiers (Nashua Titans), JP Duminy (Nashua Cape Cobras), Paul Harris (Nashua Titans), Jacques Kallis (Chevrolet Warriors), Neil McKenzie (bizhub Highveld Lions), Albie Morkel (Nashua Titans), Morne Morkel (Nashua Titans), Makhaya Ntini (Chevrolet Warriors), Dale Steyn (Nashua Titans).
