South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the first Test match against Australia in Durban on Friday, 9 October 2026, due to a hamstring injury. Rabada, 31, missed the one-day international series win over Australia last month but was in contention to feature in the first Test match. However, he has now been ruled out as a precautionary measure to ensure he is 100% fit.
The decision to rule Rabada out was not an easy one, according to Proteas captain Temba Bavuma. The team opted for a conservative approach, giving Rabada extra days to recover. Rabada's fellow pacer Lungi Ngidi was already ruled out of the first match with a similar hamstring injury. Their absence has opened the door for veteran fast bowler Anrich Nortje to be included in the starting 11.
Anrich Nortje's potential inclusion in the starting 11 marks a significant return for the fast bowler, who has been away from the team for almost four years. The Proteas have also opted for two spinners, Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, in their squad. According to Proteas Test batting coach Ashwell Prince, the team has confidence in their bowling combination, regardless of whether it is seam-heavy or features two spinners.
The Proteas are coming off a one-day international series win over Australia in September and will look to carry this momentum into the Test series. The first of three matches is set to be played in Durban from 9 October. This will be a rare outing for the South Africans in the longest cricket format, with their last Test match being almost a year ago against India.
The Proteas have a good record against India, having won a historic 2-0 series win over the Indians in their own backyard. However, they will need to replicate this form against Australia, who are a formidable opponent. South Africa is the reigning champion in the World Test Championship, having beaten Australia to claim the title in June 2025.
A convincing victory over Australia will see the Proteas make great strides in the World Test Championship standings. The South Africans currently sit second on the log table, trailing Australia. South Africa's three victories from four matches see them occupying second place with a 75% success rate, while Australia are in pole position after eight wins from their 10 matches.
The Test series between South Africa and Australia is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams eager to make a statement. According to Ashwell Prince, the Australians have a certain mentality and approach to the game that makes them a tough opponent. The Proteas will need to be at their best to outmanoeuvre the Baggy Greens and secure a win.
Key points
- Kagiso Rabada ruled out of first Test against Australia due to hamstring injury
- Anrich Nortje set to return to the starting 11 after almost four years
- Proteas looking to build on their World Test Championship title and secure a win against Australia
