Kagiso Rabada for South Africa (Source: AFP Photos)
In a significant development, South Africa’s pace sensation Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of their upcoming three-match ODI series, to be held next month. In fact, he might not even be available for the three Tests, which will get underway between the two sides once the ODI series is over.
Rabada had suffered a hamstring injury recently. Back then, he was doubtful for the SA vs AUS ODIs. However, it has now been confirmed, as reported by Cricbuzz and Cricinfo, that he won’t be playing the 50-over leg and might not be fit to play Tests as well.
South Africa Hit By Kagiso Rabada Injury Blow
Rabada had the hamstring injury on August 21. Cricbuzz revealed it was a grade 3 tear of his right hamstring, which will take 9-10 weeks for a full recovery.
If that’s the case, Rabada, for sure, will miss South Africa vs Australia ODIs, scheduled for September 24, 27 and 30. And three Tests are scheduled to get underway on October 9, 18 and 27, respectively.
Rabada, if it takes 10 weeks to recover, as confirmed by CSA to Cricbuzz, will not be there to play in whites.
"Kagiso Rabada is currently progressing through the early stages of his rehabilitation from a right hamstring injury under the close supervision of the Cricket South Africa medical team," Cricket South Africa told Cricinfo.
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"He will miss the three-match One-Day International series against Australia, scheduled from 24-30 September. His availability for the three-match Test series against Australia will depend on how he progresses through his rehabilitation, with a decision on his selection to be made closer to the series."
South Africa’s reputed media outlet Rapport revealed that Rabada will miss all three SA vs AUS Tests. The development has been confirmed by Allan Donald, who is from Rabada's domestic union in Johannesburg and is also the bowling coach of South Africa’s domestic side, the Lions.
With Rabada Injured, Who Will Play For SA Vs AUS In ODIs?
Despite the fact that Rabada has been South Africa’s most prolific wicket-taker at present, they have quite a few fast bowlers who will make sure his absence won’t be felt during SA vs AUS ODIs.
To begin with, they have Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi, and they can be ably supported by Nandre Burger and Gerald Coetzee. Even the likes of Corbin Bosch and Kwena Maphaka are there to provide their services in a 50-over set-up if required.
SA vs AUS ODIs Full Schedule
The first ODI between South Africa and Australia will take place in Durban on September 24. After that, the second ODI will be held at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, on September 27. The third and final 50-over match will take place at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom on September 30.
The Tests, meanwhile, will be at St George's Park, Gqeberha and Newlands, Cape Town.
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