Kagiso Rabada races to recover from a hamstring injury ahead of South Africa’s crucial WTC Test series against Australia.
CAPE TOWN: South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is a doubt for the much-anticipated three-Test series against Australia after suffering a right hamstring injury during training with his domestic side, the Lions, in August.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that Rabada is undergoing rehabilitation under the supervision of the national team’s medical staff and will miss South Africa’s upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia.
The 31-year-old paceman is now racing against time to recover in order to feature in the Test series, which begins in Durban on October 9.
Rabada ruled out of Australia ODIs
CSA said Rabada is progressing through the early stages of rehabilitation from his hamstring injury.
“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,” the board said.
The fast bowler will miss the three-match ODI series against Australia, scheduled to be played from September 24 to 30.
His participation in the Test series will depend on his recovery, with CSA set to make a final decision closer to the start of the Tests.
“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,” CSA said.
Major blow for South Africa
Rabada’s potential absence would be a significant setback for South Africa as they prepare to face Australia, whom they defeated in the previous ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
Rabada played a key role in that historic victory at Lord’s, claiming nine wickets to help the Proteas secure the WTC title.
His pace, experience and ability to deliver in major Test matches make him one of South Africa’s most important players, particularly against a strong Australian batting line-up.
South Africa and Australia among WTC contenders
South Africa and Australia currently occupy the top two positions in the WTC standings and are among the leading contenders to reach next year’s World Test Championship Final at The Oval.
The upcoming series is therefore expected to have major implications for the WTC race, adding further importance to Rabada’s fitness ahead of the three Tests.
South Africa vs Australia Test series schedule
The three-Test series will begin in Durban before moving to Gqeberha and Johannesburg.
•October 9–13, 2026: 1st Test — Durban
•October 18–22, 2026: 2nd Test — Gqeberha
•October 27–31, 2026: 3rd Test — Johannesburg
South Africa will hope Rabada can complete his rehabilitation in time to return for the series, although his selection will ultimately depend on his fitness and medical assessment closer to the opening Test.