Rabada fit for South Africa's Test series fightback

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 18:02 · Archive

South Africa's Kagiso Rabada appears ready to play in Sunday's second Test after recovering from a hamstring injury.

South Africa hope fast bowler Kagiso Rabada can spark a comeback in their Test series against Australia after he recovers from a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old bowled for 45 minutes at full speed during training in Gqeberha on Thursday and appears increasingly likely to play in Sunday's second Test at St George's Park, where South Africa will also make two changes to their batting order.

Rabada's display in the nets was impressive, with the right-armer squaring up Proteas captain Temba Bavuma and consistently troubling batsmen. He has taken 58 wickets against Australia at an average of 21.39, the second-best record of any fast bowler against the Australians this century. He also took nine wickets in South Africa's World Test Championship final victory over Australia at Lord's last year.

South Africa coach Shurki Conrad described Rabada as the hosts' 'Rolls Royce', hoping he would be ready for the challenge ahead. The team needs the spark Rabada provides as they fight to save the three-Test series after losing the Durban opener by 214 runs. Australia's assistant coach Matt Wade, who has worked with Rabada in the Indian Premier League, acknowledged the threat. 'The thing that stands out to him is his competitiveness,' Wade said. 'He takes it to the opposition. He'll be in our face.'

How it is being reported

• Australia's old rival firing up for South Africa returnSouth Africa hope Kagiso Rabada can be the spark to put them back in the series against Australia, with their key quick back firing ahead of the second Test.The West Australian · 15 Oct, 17:37
• Australia's old rival firing up for South Africa returnSouth Africa hope Kagiso Rabada can be the spark to put them back in the series against Australia, with their key quick back firing ahead of the second Test.Perth Now · 15 Oct, 17:36

In this story: Kagiso Rabada · South Africa · Australia · Temba Bavuma · Shurki Conrad · Matt Wade · Gqeberha · St George's Park

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