The South Africa preparations for their upcoming Test series against Australia, which begins later this month, have taken a big hit with Kagiso Rabada, who has been ruled out of the previous ODI series, now out of the Test squad.
The right hamstring injury was sustained while he was in training earlier this month. He is currently on rehab and his Test availability will only be confirmed nearer the series, Cricket South Africa has confirmed.
The Australian Series is arriving at the ideal moment.The Australian Series is here at a critical time.
It couldn’t be worse for South Africa. The three-Test matchup against Australia starts at Kingsmead on October 9, and it will be a pivotal matchup in their World Test Championship campaign.
South Africa are looking to defend their WTC title and have a busy agenda. With Australia, England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the mix for a few more chances at the final, they’ll have to perform well against these all four teams if they are to continue.
Rabada is among the stars of that campaign. His Test record of 340 wickets in 73 Tests makes him the top wicket taker amongst the active bowlers for South Africa.
Rabada’s Record Against Australia
Rabada has made his impact on Australia first-hand.
He last got the better of them in the WTC final at Lord’s with a match-winning nine-wicket performance to take the title with them.
He was equally impressive in the 2018 series between the two sides, picking up 23 wickets in first two Tests at home.
Those shows make it clear what has been lost when he’s not on the field for South Africa.
Serious Injury Concerns
However, Cricket SA has not officially stated that it’s certain of a recovery period. But it’s been hinted in South Africa that Rabada may be forced to spend several weeks on the bench due to a major tear.
If this predicted recovery time is correct, it will be difficult for him to return for the first Test.
Therefore the medical team will have to take a final call on his progress before making the final decision.
Plenty of Competition for Pace Spots
If Rabada isn’t available, South Africa do have an alternative.
But Kwena Maphaka has been developing after playing valuable limited overs cricket and Gerald Coetzee has recently proved himself capable of more than just the shorter games.
Duan Jansen has also had a promising start to his international career and will provide the selectors with another left arm option.
Anrich Nortje is also an interesting option, but if he hasn’t been playing first class cricket for a while his name may prove to be a hindrance.
Lungi Ngidi is also a veteran asset, but one who has proven himself as a white-ball bowler as well.
Will South Africa be able to replace their leader?
The depth of the fast-bowl unit in South Africa affords the selectors a number of options, but Rabada is not easily replaced.
His ability to score quickly, his experience and record means he is the leader of the attack, particularly on the faster pitches that South Africa will face in their upcoming Test programme.
For the time being the team can only wait to see his rehabilitation come along. The fitness question is likely to be one of the most important ones that will face Australia in October.