South Africa batter Aiden Markram has been ruled out of remainder of the T20I series in India after missing the first three games having tested positive for COVID-19 just before the series opener in Delhi.

Markram had tested positive after couple of practice sessions in Delhi, and will not be able to return to competitive cricket in time for the remain two matches after serving the isolation period.

"Proteas batsman, Aiden Markram, has been ruled out of the remainder of the Proteas' tour of India. He spent seven days in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19 last week and will not be able to complete his return to play programme in time to take part in the remainder of the T20 series," a Cricket South Africa statement said.

"The player is healthy and well and has been cleared to return home to look after his mental and emotional wellbeing after isolation in a local facility, as required when an individual tests positive on tour," it added.

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The statement further added that a decision on wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock's availability for the remaining matches will be made in due course by CSA's medical team.

"Wicket-keeper batsman, Quinton de Kock, has made a marked improvement in his recovery from a wrist injury. The Proteas' medical staff will continue to assess his progress and make a decision on his availability for match four in due course," it read.

South Africa lead the series 2-1 with the fourth and fifth T20I scheduled for June 17 and 19 in Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively.

(WITH PTI INPUTS)