South Africa has been dealt a major blow ahead of a crucial series against the visiting Australia side. The team's premier fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series scheduled for September due to a hamstring injury. Furthermore, serious doubts persist over whether he will be able to recover in time for the Test series slated for October. If the injury turns out to be severe, Kagiso Rabada could potentially miss several important matches in the World Test Championship.
Cricket South Africa had previously stated on August 21 that Kagiso Rabada sustained a hamstring injury during a training session, which subsequently disrupted his winter training program. At that time, the board mentioned that the medical team was monitoring his condition and that further assessments would be conducted. However, a report that surfaced on Sunday escalated concerns. According to the African website Rapport, citing Lions team bowling coach Allan Donald, the fast bowler has suffered a Grade 3 tear in his right hamstring and faces a recovery period of approximately 9 to 10 weeks away from the pitch. If this information holds true, it will be extremely difficult for Kagiso Rabada to feature in the entire Test series against Australia.
Test Series Set to Begin on October 9
The three-match Test series between South Africa and Australia is scheduled to get underway on October 9 at Kingsmead. The second Test is set to be played from October 17, while the third and final fixture will take place at Newlands starting October 25. Counting a 10-week period from August 21 brings the timeline to around October 16. This means that if Kagiso Rabada is not fully fit by the start of the series, he will miss at least the opening Test match.
Cricket South Africa clarified regarding the injury that he is currently undergoing the initial stages of rehabilitation under the strict supervision of the medical team. According to the board, he will not take part in the three-match ODI series scheduled between September 24 and 30. His selection for the Test series will entirely depend on his recovery progress, and a final call will be made closer to the start of the series.
Impressive Career Statistics for Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is currently the leading wicket-taker among active South African bowlers in the longer format. He has claimed 340 wickets across 73 Test matches at an impressive bowling average of 22.03. His raw pace, vast experience, and aggressive spells on fast tracks are immensely vital for South Africa. To secure a spot in the upcoming World Test Championship final, South Africa has to play several crucial fixtures, including home Test series against Australia, England, and Bangladesh, alongside matches in Sri Lanka.
