Midway through August 2026, during South Africa’s training, Kagiso Rabada suffered a right hamstring injury that prevented him from playing in the September ODI series against Australia. Immediately after the injury, the fast bowler started his rehabilitation regimen, with medical personnel monitoring his progress.
As the October Test series draws near, South Africa coach Shukri Conrad has offered a positive evaluation on Kagiso Rabada development. Speaking on September 21, Conrad said that the medical team’s early indications were encouraging and that a final clearance decision would be made in a few days.
According to Conrad, Kagiso Rabada recuperation is going nicely.
Conrad emphasized Kagiso Rabada significance to the South African bowling attack and his outstanding record versus Australia. The coach pointed out that Kagiso Rabada has shown his worth in this specific matchup by taking 58 wickets at an average of 21.39 in 11 Test matches against Australia. Kagiso Rabada has taken 340 wickets in 73 Test matches.
After Kagiso Rabada had finished many weeks of intensive therapy, a final medical clearance decision was anticipated toward the end of September 2026. Conrad said that the medical team’s preliminary findings were encouraging and that they will soon have clarity regarding his availability.
If necessary, have backup bowling choices available.
Although he emphasized that the medical team’s evaluation would be the deciding element in any final decision, Conrad acknowledged that Rabada’s physical condition and rate of recuperation provided him cause for optimism.
Although Rabada’s presence would be important, the South African coach emphasized that the team had competent substitutes prepared to step up if necessary. If necessary, young player Kwena Maphaka, Gerald Coetzee, and Corbin Bosch would probably take on more responsibilities in the fast bowling department.
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In the WTC 2025–27 rankings, South Africa trailed Australia, who was in first place. The dates of the three-Test series against Australia were set for October 9 in Durban, October 18 in Gqeberha, and October 27 in Cape Town.
