Injury Blow for South Africa as Rabada Misses Australia ODIs

South Africa could face a major setback before their three-match Test series against Australia, with leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada expected to miss the series after suffering a serious Grade 3 tear in his right hamstring.

Rabada picked up the injury during his winter conditioning programme and could be sidelined for up to 10 weeks. This puts his participation in the series, which starts in Durban on October 9, in serious doubt.

Rabada Ruled Out of Australia ODIs

Cricket South Africa CSA released a statement confirming that Rabada had suffered a right hamstring strain, ruling him out of the 3-match ODI series beginning September 24 in Durban.
“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 in the statement.

Test Absence Would Be a Major Concern

Rabada missing the Test series would be a major concern for South Africa, especially after their win over Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s last year, where the 31-year-old claimed nine wickets.

Former South Africa fast bowler and current Lions bowling coach Allan Donald has confirmed that Rabada is set to miss the full series, putting an end to hopes of seeing him return for the domestic season.

“He’s going to be out for all the Aussie Tests as well,” Donald said.
South Africa are due to play 3 Tests against Australia, with the opening match scheduled for October 9 in Durban. Gqeberha will host the second Test from October 18, while Cape Town will stage the final match from October 27. Before the Test series, the 2 teams will play 3 ODIs starting in Durban on September 24.

South Africa Face Bowling Concerns

Rabada’s absence leaves a big gap in the South African bowling attack. Gerald Coetzee, Corbin Bosch and youngster Kwena Maphaka are expected to take on more responsibility in his absence.

South Africa are also keeping an eye on Nandre Burger’s fitness as he continues his recovery from a back stress fracture. The left-arm pacer could still recover in time to play in the Test series.

Kagiso Rabada has been an absolute force in Test cricket, with 340 wickets in just 73 matches. He also has a strong record against Australia, taking 58 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 21.39. South Africa had hoped to have Rabada lead the attack against Australia once again, but those hopes have now been shattered by his injury.

However, Rabada’s pre-season injury will be a concern for South Africa ahead of their three-match Test series against Australia. Their main red-ball bowler played a crucial role in the 2025 World Test Championship victory over Australia, taking nine wickets in the final. South Africa will be eager to have Rabada back on the field before the series reaches its conclusion.

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