South Africa’s lead fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will miss the first Test against Australia at Kingsmead in Durban, beginning on Friday, October 9, with the Proteas opting for a two-man spin attack in the series opener.
Captain Temba Bavuma confirmed Rabada’s absence after South Africa named their playing XI, with experienced spinner Simon Harmer joining Keshav Maharaj in the attack.
Rabada has not played a competitive match since the Indian Premier League in May after suffering a right hamstring injury during winter training. He had been in contention for selection after working his way back to fitness and trained with the squad at Kingsmead on Thursday.
However, South Africa have taken a cautious approach with their premier fast bowler, choosing not to rush him back for the opening Test.
“It was not an easy one,” Bavuma told reporters.
“I think we did go the conservative route to give him a couple of extra days to get as close as he can be to 100 per cent fitness.
“As soon as he gets the green light, we expect him to be within that starting lineup.”
RABADA’S CAUTIOUS RETURN
Rabada’s absence leaves South Africa without one of their most experienced Test bowlers for the opening contest of the series. The Proteas will instead rely on a pace attack featuring Marco Jansen and Anrich Nortje, with Nortje making his return to first-class cricket after an extended injury absence.
Nortje is set to play his first first-class game in almost four years. The express pacer has endured a difficult period with injuries, including back and hip problems, but has now been given the opportunity to return to the Test side.
The decision to leave out Rabada is part of South Africa’s cautious approach as they look to ensure the fast bowler is fully fit before bringing him back into competitive cricket.
TWO SPINNERS FOR KINGSMEAD
The other major selection call is South Africa’s decision to play two specialist spinners. Maharaj will be joined by Harmer, giving Bavuma two experienced options to exploit the conditions at Kingsmead.
The batting line-up features Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton and David Bedingham at the top, followed by Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs. Wiaan Mulder provides an all-round option, while Kyle Verreynne takes the gloves.
South Africa will hope their combination of spin and pace can put Australia under pressure in the opening Test. For now, the immediate focus will remain on Rabada’s recovery, with Bavuma expecting him to return once he receives the green light.
South Africa’s Playing XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (C), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Anrich Nortje
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