New Delhi, Oct 14, 2026 13:41 IST South Africa is poised to receive a major boost with Kagiso Rabada closing in on a return for the second match against Australia in Gqeberha after missing the series opener in Durban due to a hamstring issue. The Proteas will look to their premier fast bowler's availability to help them rebound after suffering a 214-run defeat at Kingsmead.
Skipper Temba Bavuma delivered a positive progress report regarding Rabada's rehabilitation, indicating that leaving him out of the first Test served as a safety measure rather than a major setback. The upcoming fixture commences on October 18 at St George's Park, leaving the hosts searching for a decisive response to tie the series.
Bavuma noted that Rabada appeared in good shape and remained energetic within the squad environment. He explained that the decision to keep him sidelined was precautionary to grant him additional recovery time, adding that the team will monitor his continued improvement ahead of the fixture.
The home side severely missed Rabada's presence in Durban as Australia recovered from 64 for 6 to post 390 in their opening innings, aided by Matt Renshaw's career-best 190 that shifted momentum to the tourists. Josh Hazlewood subsequently produced a stellar bowling spell of six wickets for 49 runs during the second innings, dismissing South Africa for 206 while chasing a target of 421 to secure a 1-0 series advantage.
Rabada's anticipated comeback would bolster South Africa's pace department alongside other seam options. Nevertheless, the team must also resolve their batting deficiencies after Aiden Markram's second-innings 75 stood as the sole half-century for the hosts in an encounter where multiple batters failed to construct meaningful partnerships.
Rabada has not participated in competitive action since appearing for the Gujarat Titans during the Indian Premier League final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 31. Subject to full fitness clearance, he could re-enter the starting lineup for the Gqeberha encounter.
The Proteas remain hopeful that their leading speedster can supply the necessary penetration to trouble Australia's strong batting lineup and preserve their chances of claiming the series victory.