South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad is optimistic about ace fast bowler Kagiso Rabada's recovery from a hamstring injury and expects him to play in the upcoming three-match ICC World Test Championship series against Australia, starting October 9. Rabada is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a right hamstring injury sustained during a training session in mid-August. Conrad expressed high optimism over Rabada's recovery, saying he would be 'very surprised' if the star fast bowler misses the series.
Rabada's injury forced him out of the upcoming ODI series against Australia, casting doubts over his availability for the red-ball games. However, Conrad believes Rabada's recovery is well on track, with the bowler holding an exceptional record against Australia, having scalped 58 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 21.39. This includes a memorable nine-wicket match haul in the 2025 World Test Championship Final victory at Lord's.
Conrad stated that Rabada's rehabilitation and training programs are progressing nicely, with the medical team leading the recovery process. He added that Rabada tends to recover quicker than others and is an absolute superstar. While there's still a little bit of work to be done, Conrad is confident that Rabada will be ready for the Test series.
The three-match series carries significant weight in the WTC 2025-27 cycle, with Australia leading the table and South Africa occupying the second spot. The series will be played in Durban, Gqeberha, and Cape Town. Conrad emphasized the importance of Rabada's presence in the team but also expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt if he is not available.
Conrad highlighted the team's past performances without key players, citing examples such as their success in India and Pakistan without Rabada. He believes that the team has shown its ability to adapt and find ways to win even when key players are missing. However, having Rabada in the team will be massive for South Africa.
Rabada's presence is crucial for South Africa, given his exceptional record against Australia. Conrad is led by the medical team's assessment and is optimistic about Rabada's chances of playing in the series. The final decision on Rabada's availability will be made after a few weeks of intensive treatment.
The Proteas team is gearing up to face a strong Australian side, and Conrad emphasized the need for his team to match Australia's intensity. With or without Rabada, South Africa will look to make an impact in the series and improve their standings in the WTC 2025-27 cycle.
Key points
- Kagiso Rabada's recovery from a hamstring injury is on track, and South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad expects him to play in the Test series against Australia.
